In psychology, causation between two events relates to an event that directly influences, or produces, the other. Grasping causation assists researchers in determining the reasons behind certain behaviors or mental processes, and differentiating correlation from actual causative relationships. Experimentation enables psychologists to vary certain parameters within a framework in order to establish causation. In formulating treatment, interventions, and behavior modifications, understanding the causal factors is vital. For example, a causal relationship between sleep and cognition is illustrated in a study that showed sleep deprivation to lower memory performance.
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