Dr. Wilhelm randomly assigned 50 depressed patients (half women and half men)to two groups for treatment. One group received medication, and the other received cognitive therapy. Ratings of the depression level of the participants were taken before and after treatment. The type of treatment received (medication vs. cognitive therapy)is the
A)third variable.
B)classificatory variable.
C)dependent variable.
D)independent variable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The type of treatment (medication vs. cognitive therapy) is being manipulated by the researcher and is therefore the independent variable. The depression level ratings before and after treatment are being measured and are therefore the dependent variable. The third variable refers to any other variable that may be affecting the results but is not being manipulated or measured in the study. The classificatory variable is not a commonly used term in research methodology.

Dr Wilhelm Randomly Assigned 50 Depressed Patients (Half Women and Half