Which of the following statements indicates a negative correlation?

• A. As social support increases, self-esteem increases.
• B. As the number of hours of sleep decreases, the ability to concentrate decreases.
• C. As healthy eating increases, high blood pressure decreases.
• D. As poverty increases, crime rates increase.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of correlation: Correlation refers to a statistical relationship between two variables. It can be positive, negative, or zero (no correlation).
2. Identify what a negative correlation means: In a negative correlation, as one variable increases, the other variable decreases. This indicates an inverse relationship between the two variables.
3. Analyze each statement to determine the type of correlation: Look for pairs of variables where an increase in one leads to a decrease in the other.
4. Evaluate the statement 'As healthy eating increases, high blood pressure decreases': This statement describes a negative correlation because as healthy eating (one variable) increases, high blood pressure (the other variable) decreases.
5. Compare with other statements: Ensure that the other statements do not describe a negative correlation. For example, 'As social support increases, self-esteem increases' describes a positive correlation, not a negative one.