What type of study aims to explore the relationships between two or more variables?

A correlational study specifically seeks to explore the relationships between two or more variables. It examines how changes in one variable may be associated with changes in another variable, identifying patterns or correlations without implying direct cause-and-effect relationships. This type of study typically uses statistical analysis to determine the strength and direction of the relationships, showcasing whether the variables move together positively or negatively.

In contrast, descriptive studies focus on providing a detailed account or image of the characteristics of a specific population or phenomenon but do not delve into relationships between variables. Experimental studies are designed to manipulate an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable, establishing causation rather than merely correlation. Longitudinal studies track variables over time to identify changes and trends, which may include correlational insights, but their primary focus is on observing how relationships evolve over time rather than simply assessing them at a single point. Each of these study types serves a distinct purpose, but a correlational study is uniquely aimed at understanding the relationships between variables.