Ken is planning on studying the influence of intelligence on the ability to recall events from the 1960s. If Ken does not account for variables such as age, which could also influence one's ability to recall these events, age could be considered a(n) ________.
A) random variable
B) dependent variable
C) confounding variable
D) independent variable

Question

Ken is planning on studying the influence of intelligence on the ability to recall events from the 1960s. If Ken does not account for variables such as age, which could also influence one's ability to recall these events, age could be considered a(n) ________.
A) random variable
B) dependent variable
C) confounding variable 
D) independent variable

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Confounding variables are variables that are not being studied but can still have an effect on the outcome of the study. In this case, age can influence one's ability to recall events from the 1960s, and if it is not controlled for, it could confound the relationship between intelligence and recall ability. Random variables refer to variables that cannot be controlled or anticipated, while dependent and independent variables are the main variables being studied in the research question.

Ken Is Planning on Studying the Influence of Intelligence on the Ability