Correlational anomalies.

Considers that differences in research findings regarding the relationship between any 2 variables are commonplace. Controversies regarding the validity of divergent findings may be irrelevant in some circumstances because of correlational anomalies. These situations are illustrated, using sets of hypothetical data to demonstrate how several apparently conflicting findings can all be valid. It is suggested that realization of types and causes of correlational anomalies should lead to caution in generalizing from parts to a whole or from the whole to its parts. One might attempt to integrate relationships from this perspective before concluding that divergent findings are a consequence of inadequate research methods. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)