Learn how to tell the difference betweendependent and independent variables.
Independent vs.
Here are a couple of questions to ask to help you learn which is which.
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Which Variable Is the Experimenter Measuring?
Keep in mind that the dependent variable is the one being measured.
One way to help identify the dependent variable is to remember that itdependson the independent variable.
When researchers make changes to the independent variable, they then measure any changes to the dependent variable.
Which Variable Does the Experimenter Manipulate?
The independent variable is “independent” because the experimenters are free to vary it as they need.
In this case, the treatment is an independent variable because it is the one being manipulated or changed.
There are a few key features a scientist might consider.
Stability
Stability is often a good sign of a higher-quality dependent variable.
Complexity
A researcher might also choose dependent variables based on the complexity of their study.
Researchers might also want to learn how changes in a single independent variable affect several dependent variables.
This research might also want to see how the messiness of a room might influence a person’s mood.
Ability to Operationalize
Operationalization is defined as “translating a construct into its manifestation.
“In simple terms, it refers to how a variable will be measured.
So, a good dependent variable is one that you are able to measure.
Ifmeasuring burnout, for instance, researchers might decide to use the Maslach Burnout Inventory.
If measuring depression, they could use thePatient Health Questionnaire-9(PHQ-9).
Here are just a few dependent variable examples inpsychology research.
Frequently Asked Questions
The dependent variable depends on the independent variable.
Thus, if the independent variable changes, the dependent variable would likely change too.
The dependent variable is placed on a graph’s y-axis.
This is the vertical line or the line that extends upward.
The independent variable is placed on the graph’s x-axis or the horizontal line.
The dependent variable is the one being measured.
A controlled variable is a variable that doesn’t change during the experiment.
This enables researchers to assess the relationship between the dependent and independent variables more accurately.
This would be a controlled variable.
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