In this study, it is aimed to examine to what extent the correlation coefficient used in scientific research to represents the real relationship of the correlation between the variables. In line with this research purpose, the study was carried out through the correlational research model as one of the quantitative research approaches. While the research universe is 15-year-old high school students, the sample consists of 3056 students selected by random stratified sampling method. The data set is obtained from the social and emotional skills research conducted by the OECD. Data collection tools consist of 5 basic skills and 15 sub-skill sets used in social and emotional skills research. Within the scope of this research, two sub-skills with the highest correlation were selected, and then the skill set with a common relationship with these sub-skills was determined. Descriptive statistics, binary correlation and partial correlation analyzes were used in data analysis. As a result of the analysis, it was pointed out that social and emotional skills were statistically correlated with each other and partial correlation values were lower than bilateral correlation values. On the basis of the study results, some suggestions for correlational research are presented.

Social and emotional skills, binary correlation, reliability, validity .