The term “curvilinear” describes a particular form of association between two variables that involves a non-constant change and which is represented by a curve. Such a relationship is more complicated as it differs in strength or direction at different levels. In psychology, this term is used in research and statistical analyses to elaborate more on complicated relationships that do not approximate any form of a straight line. This inverted U-shaped curve is also known as the Yerkes-Dodson law and exemplifies a curvilinear function between arousal and performance. In psychological research, more attention needs to be devoted to understanding and elucidating curvilinear relationships, for many aspects of human behavior and mental processes do not simply follow the “more is better” or “less is worse” dichotomy.
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