Variables and Hypotheses

Question 1

Independent Variable

Answer 1

The variable the psychologist manipulates.

Question 2

Dependent Variable

Answer 2

The variable which is measured by the psychologist.

Question 3

Extraneous Variable

Answer 3

Variables in a study that are not being measured or manipulated by the researcher but affect the results (DV) of ALL participants’ behaviour equally.

Question 4

Confounding Variable

Answer 4

Variables in a study that are not being measured or manipulated by the researcher, that affect SOME participants’ behaviours but not others, having negative consequences for validity.

Question 5

Operationalisation

Answer 5

Giving a precise definition of the behaviour being manipulated/observed/measured (IV/DV)

Question 6

Aim

Answer 6

A broad statement of the purpose of the research.

Question 7

Experimental/Alternate Hypothesis

Answer 7

A testable statement that a piece of research attempts to support or reject.

Question 8

Null Hypothesis

Answer 8

A hypothesis that suggests there will be no difference/relationship between variables, any that does occur does so by chance

Question 9

Directional Hypothesis

Answer 9

A hypothesis that suggests there will be a difference/relationship between variables, where the IV will affect the DV in one specific direction/outcome

Question 10

Non-directional Hypothesis

Answer 10

A hypothesis that suggests there will be a difference/relationship between variables, the IV will affect the DV, but does not state a specific direction/outcome for results