Control of variables Flashcards
What is an extraneous variable?
Any variable other than the IV that may have an affect on the DV
What is an example of an extraneous variable?
A flickering light in a lab
Why is an extraneous variable considered a ‘nuisance’ variable?
As it makes it harder to detect a result
What is a confounding variable?
A variable that systematically changes with the IV
What is an example of a confounding variable?
There may be a flickering light in one condition but not in the other
What are demand characteristics? (within research methods)
Any cue that has given away the real purpose of the study
Why are demand characteristics a problem?
They may lead to participants changing their behaviour
What is the ‘Please U’ effect?
Over-performing to please the experimenter
What is the ‘Screw U’ effect?
Under-performing to sabotage the results
What is an investigator effect?
Any effect of the researcher’s behaviour that could change the outcome of results
What is an example of an investigator effect?
Smiling more when lying
What is standardisation?
When all participants are given the same treatment
What is randomisation?
Using chance to control the effects of bias
