What is the purpose for using a control condition in an experiment?
A) It provides a baseline to evaluate the size of the treatment effect.
B) It minimizes the threat of a confounding variable.
C) It is necessary to ensure the internal validity of the study.
D) It is necessary to ensure the external validity of the study.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using a control condition in an experiment provides a baseline against which to evaluate the size of the treatment effect. For example, if participants in the treatment group show a statistically significant improvement in a particular outcome measure compared to the control group, it suggests that the treatment had a positive effect. Without a control condition, it would be difficult to determine whether any changes seen in the treatment group were due to the intervention or some other factor.

What Is the Purpose for Using a Control Condition in an Experiment