xperimental Psychology Techniques: Variables, Controls, and Sampling Methods

independent variable in an experiment

The variable that researchers deliberately change or manipulate a study ( not trying to hurt anybody)

dependent variable

The outcome after the Independent variable.

confounding variables

Unmeasured variables that can influence the cause and effect relationship leading to limited confidence in research conclusions. (Third variable)

control group

A group that is not exposed to the independent variable providing a baseline for comparison with the experimental group.

operational definition

in research It specifies how researchers will measure and manipulate variables.

placebo effect

When individuals experience improvement in their condition because they believe they are receiving a beneficial treatment.

experimenter bias

When researchers' expectations or beliefs about the outcome influence the results of the study.

What is a double-blind study

A study where both participants and researchers are unaware of who belongs to the experimental or control group.

single-blind study

A study where participants are unaware of whether they belong to the experimental or control group, but researchers are aware.

representative sample

A subset of individuals selected from a larger population that accurately reflects the demographics and characteristics of that population.

Random sample

A sampling method that ensures each participant has an equal opportunity to include minimizing biases and increasing generalizability.

sample bias

The sample is not representative of the larger population leading to inaccurate or misleading results.