Variables

Question 1

Extraneous variables

Answer 1

Any variable other than the IV that could potentially influence the DV in the study

Question 2

Confounding variables

Answer 2

A specific type of extraneous variable that varies systematically with the IV. Therefore, it provides an alternative explanation for the results.

Question 3

Participant variables

Answer 3

The individual differences among participants in a study that can influence the results.
e.g. Age, gender, intelligence, experience, background

Question 4

Participant reactivity

Answer 4

A tendency for participants to read cues from the research environment or the researcher and change their behaviour.
May result in demand characteristics.

Question 5

Demand characteristics

Answer 5

Cues in an experiment setting that may lead to the participants discovering the aim of the researcher’s study. Can lead to them changing their behaviour or responses to please/displease the researcher.

Question 6

Social desirability bias

Answer 6

The tendency of people/participants to present themselves in a more favourable light by behaving or reporting more desirable attributes.

Question 7

Situational variables

Answer 7

Factors in the environment that can impact an individual’s level of obedience.

Question 8

Investigator effects

Answer 8

When the researcher unconsciously influences the participants or the results of the study.