Psych unit 0

Independent Variable (IV)

The variable that the researcher manipulates to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable (DV)

The variable that is measured in an experiment; it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Confounding Variable

A variable other than the independent variable that could influence the outcome of the experiment, potentially skewing results.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.

Operational Definitions

A clear, precise, and measurable definition of a variable used in a study, allowing for replication.

Replication

Repeating a study using the same methods but different participants to see if the original findings hold up.

Sample

A subset of the population that participates in the research.

Population

The entire group of individuals the researchers are interested in studying.

Representative Sample

A sample that accurately reflects the characteristics of the population from which it is drawn.

Random Sampling

A method where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected for the study.

Convenience Sampling

A non-random method where participants are selected based on ease of access.

Random Assignment

Assigning participants to experimental or control groups by chance to reduce bias and increase validity.

Experimental Group

The group that receives the independent variable or treatment in an experiment.

Control Group

The group that does not receive the independent variable; used as a comparison to measure the effect of the treatment.

Placebo Effect

When participants experience changes simply because they believe they are receiving a treatment, not because of the treatment itself.

Single-Blind Study

A study in which the participants do not know whether they are in the experimental or control group, but the researchers do.

Double-Blind Study

A study in which neither the participants nor the researchers know who is in the experimental or control group; reduces bias from both sides.

Case Study

An in-depth examination of a single individual or a small group, often used to explore rare or unusual conditions.

Correlation

A measure of the relationship between two variables, indicating how well one predicts the other (but not showing causation).

Naturalistic Observation

Observing behavior in a natural setting without manipulating or controlling the environment.

Meta-Analysis

A statistical technique that combines the results of multiple studies to find overall trends or effects.