Final answer:
Researchers conduct correlational research to identify relationships between variables, make predictions about one variable based on another, and understand the nature of the connections. However, this type of research does not establish causation and does not involve manipulating variables.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers conduct correlational research for several reasons. The main reasons include the following:
- To identify relationships between variables: Correlational research is performed to detect if a relationship exists between two or more variables and to understand the strength and direction of this relationship.
- To make predictions about one variable based on another: When a correlation between variables is known, it can be used to predict the value of one variable based on the known value of another variable.
- To establish causation between variables is not a correct answer since correlational research cannot by itself establish causal relationships due to potential confounding variables that might be influencing the correlation.
- To manipulate and control variables for experimental purposes is also not a correct answer because this is indicative of experimental rather than correlational research, which does not involve manipulation of variables.
It's important to note that a correlational study can indicate the possibility of a cause-effect relationship, but further experimental research is necessary to establish causation definitively.