RESEARCH METHODS- Confounding and extraneous variables Flashcards
Define a variable
Something that may/ does vary
What is the independent variable?
Manipulated by the researcher to investigate whether it brings change to another variable
What is the dependent variable?
Measured and predicted, dependent on the IV
What is an extraneous variable?
Any variable except the IV that could influence your findings (dependent variable) if its not controlled
Define a confounding variable
A confounding variable is a type of extraneous variable that not only affects the dependent variable but is also related to the independent variable.
What are situational variables?
-Variables that are found in the environment/ situation in which the study is conducted
Give an example of a situational variable
-Noise
-Lighting
-Location
What are participant variables?
-Variables to do with the person
Give some examples of particpant variables
-Participants mood/motivation
-Demand characteristics
-Social desirability
Define experimenter effects
Subtle cues given by the researcher that may influence the way the participant responds
What are demand characteristics?
-When human participants respond to the experimental conditions in which they are involved
What may cause demand characteristics?
Cues are given by the experimenter that causes the participant to figure out the aim of the experiment and then behave accordingly
Define social desirability
Participants may behave in a way that they think is expected and act to please the experimenter or they may even deliberately sabotage the experimenter
What is evaluation apprehension?
A change in a persons behaviour due to the anxiety of being observed or judged
