What's In
ns: In your own words, describe/ define the terms: variable, independent
variable, and dependent variable. Write your answers on the given
graphic organizer.
ns: In your own words, describe/ define the terms: variable, independent
variable, and dependent variable. Write your answers on the given
graphic organizer.
Answers & Comments
Answer:
Variables are given a special name that only applies to experimental investigations. One is called the dependent variable and the other the independent variable.
The independent variable is the variable the experimenter manipulates or changes, and is assumed to have a direct effect on the dependent variable. For example, allocating participants to either drug or placebo conditions (independent variable) in order to measure any changes in the intensity of their anxiety (dependent variable).
The dependent variable is the variable being tested and measured in an experiment, and is 'dependent' on the independent variable. An example of a dependent variable is depression symptoms, which depends on the independent variable (type of therapy).