What is meant by causation in research?

Causation in research refers to a relationship where changes in one variable, known as the independent variable, directly lead to changes in another variable, the dependent variable. This concept emphasizes the notion of cause and effect, indicating that the manipulation or variation of the independent variable results in predictable changes in the dependent variable.

In research design, establishing causation typically involves controlled experiments or longitudinal studies where potential confounding factors are identified and accounted for. This allows researchers to draw conclusions about the direct impact of one variable on another, as opposed to merely observing correlations or associations that do not imply a direct cause.

In contrast to other options, which may describe aspects of relationships or associations without implying causation, the correct interpretation directly links the independent and dependent variables in a cause-and-effect framework. This understanding is crucial for social workers and researchers to design effective interventions and evaluate their outcomes properly.