Confounding Variable

Definition

A confounding variable is an extraneous factor that influences the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable, making it difficult to determine the true effect of the independent variable. It can lead to false or misleading conclusions in a study.

Related terms

Independent Variable:

The independent variable is the factor that is deliberately manipulated by the researcher in an experiment. For example, in our cookie experiment, it would be whether we use butter or margarine.

Dependent Variable:

The dependent variable is what is being measured or observed in an experiment as a result of changes made to the independent variable. In our cookie experiment, it would be how good or bad the cookies taste.

Control Variable: Control variables are factors that are held constant and not allowed to change throughout an experiment. In our cookie experiment, we should have controlled oven temperature as a control variable so that it does not become a confounding factor.