ABSTRACT
The Pearson correlation coefficient (sometimes called the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient or simply the Pearson r) determines the strength of the linear relationship between two variables. Assumptions
Both variables should be measured on interval or ratio scales (or as a dichotomous nominal variable). If a relationship exists between them, that relationship should be linear. Because the Pearson correlation coefficient is computed with z-scores, both variables should also be normally distributed. If your data do not meet these assumptions, consider using the Spearman rho correlation coefficient instead. SPSS Data Format
Two variables are required in your SPSS data file. Each subject must have data for both variables. Running the Command
To select the Pearson correlation coefficient, click Analyze, then Correlate, then Bivariate (bivariate refers to two variables). This will bring up the Bivariate Correlations dialog box. This example uses the HEIGHT.sav data file entered at the start of Chapter 4.
