Two researchers hypothesize that "parents who use more frequent verbal punishment ... will report more problem behaviors in their children" (Brenner & Fox, 1998, p. 252). In this study, the independent variable is ______.
A) parents
B) children
C) use of verbal punishment
D) number of problem behaviors reported

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The independent variable is the variable that the researchers manipulate or observe to determine its effects on the dependent variable. In this case, the researchers are interested in the effects of the use of verbal punishment on problem behaviors in children. Verbal punishment is an aspect of parenting behavior that can be manipulated by the parent, and therefore is the independent variable in this study. The number of problem behaviors reported is the dependent variable, as it is the outcome that is being measured and is expected to be influenced by the use of verbal punishment. The parents and children involved in the study are not being manipulated by the researchers and therefore are not independent variables.

Two Researchers Hypothesize That "Parents Who Use More Frequent Verbal