What type of data does correlational research primarily focus on?

Correlational research primarily focuses on numerical data because it examines the relationships between two or more variables using statistical methods. This type of research often involves quantitative measurements that can be analyzed to identify patterns, trends, or correlations. For example, researchers might collect data on crime rates and socioeconomic status to determine if there is a statistical correlation between these two variables.

The emphasis on numerical data is integral to calculating correlation coefficients, which quantify the strength and direction of the relationship between the variables being studied. By using numerical data, researchers can rigorously test hypotheses and provide clearer insights into relationships that may not be discernible through non-numerical measures.