Which of the following best describes a correlational study?

A correlational study is designed to identify and analyze the relationships between two or more variables without manipulating any of the variables involved. It seeks to determine whether an association exists between the variables and the strength and direction of that association.

In the context of the chosen option, analyzing health behaviors can involve examining patterns and relationships between various health-related factors, such as diet, exercise, and health outcomes. This form of study aligns well with the purpose of a correlational study since it typically looks at how different health behaviors relate to each other and to health outcomes, without implementing any kind of intervention to change those behaviors.

On the other hand, measuring outcomes focuses on the effects of specific interventions or conditions rather than the relationships between variables. Testing an intervention implies a controlled study where one or more variables are manipulated to observe the effect, which is not the focus of a correlational study. Comparing control groups suggests a design that evaluates differences between groups, typically seen in experimental studies rather than correlational research.