Types of variables

Full Answer Section

• • Example: In the same blood pressure study, blood pressure readings would be the DV.

• Control Variable: A variable that is kept constant or controlled during the study to minimize its influence on the relationship between the IV and DV.

  • Example: The age and gender of participants might be controlled in the blood pressure study to ensure that those factors don't confound the results.

• Extraneous Variable: A variable that is not part of the study but could potentially influence the DV.

  • Example: In the blood pressure study, stress levels could be an extraneous variable, as it can affect blood pressure, even if the medication is the primary focus.

Why Independent vs. Dependent:

The distinction between IV and DV is crucial because it helps researchers understand the direction of influence in a study. We are interested in how changes in the IV impact the DV, not the other way around.

2. Analyzing Research Abstracts:

I cannot access specific research journals or their abstracts. To complete this section, you'll need to find relevant abstracts from your chosen field using a reputable database like PubMed, ScienceDirect, or JSTOR.

Once you have your abstracts, follow these steps for each one:

• Purpose: Identify the primary research question or goal of the study. What is the study trying to find out?

• Hypothesis: If applicable, identify the hypothesis or prediction the researchers are testing. What is the expected relationship between the variables?

• Type of Study: Determine the design of the study:

  • Correlational: Examines the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them.

  • Experimental: Manipulates an IV to observe its effect on the DV.

  • Qualitative: Involves collecting and analyzing non-numerical data (e.g., interviews, observations) to understand perspectives and experiences.

  • Mixed Methods: Combines quantitative and qualitative approaches.

• Conclusion: Summarize the main findings or conclusions of the study. What did the researchers discover?

3. Research Questions on Gender Differences in Adolescent Development:

Here are five research questions exploring gender differences in adolescent development:

1. How do gender stereotypes influence the self-esteem and body image of adolescent girls compared to adolescent boys?

2. What are the differences in communication styles and social interactions between adolescent girls and boys in peer groups?

3. Do gender differences exist in the academic performance and engagement levels of adolescents, and if so, what are the contributing factors?

4. How do gender roles impact adolescents' career aspirations and future educational goals?

5. What are the differences in the emotional expression and coping mechanisms employed by adolescent girls and boys?

4. Advantages of Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles:

• Rigorous Review Process: Articles undergo a peer-review process, ensuring quality, accuracy, and scientific rigor.

• Evidence-Based Information: Articles present research findings supported by data, analysis, and methods, making them reliable sources of information.

• Current Research: Journal articles often reflect the latest findings and advancements in a particular field.

• Academic Credibility: Articles published in peer-reviewed journals are considered highly credible sources in academia and research.

5. Advantages of Wikipedia:

• Accessibility: Wikipedia is freely available and accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Wikipedia provides a vast repository of information on a wide range of topics.

• Community-Based: The information is crowdsourced and edited by a diverse community of contributors, promoting inclusivity and breadth of perspective.

• Hyperlinked Structure: Wikipedia articles are heavily linked, making it easy to explore related information and delve deeper into specific topics.

Sample Answer

Understanding Research: Variables, Abstracts, and Research Questions

Here's a breakdown of the elements of research, incorporating the provided questions:

1. Types of Variables:

Variables are characteristics or attributes that can vary or change. In research, we often identify and analyze these variables to understand their relationships and influence on outcomes. Here are the main types:

• Independent Variable (IV): The variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher. The IV is believed to influence the dependent variable.

  • Example: In a study examining the effect of a new medication on blood pressure, the medication is the IV.

• Dependent Variable (DV): The variable that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable.