Confounding Variables
Definition
Confounding variables are additional factors that are not accounted for in a study but can influence both the independent and dependent variables. They can lead to incorrect conclusions about cause-and-effect relationships.
Analogy
Confounding variables are like background noise during a conversation. They can interfere with understanding what someone is saying because they introduce additional factors that distract from the main message.
Related terms
Control Group: A control group is a group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or intervention being studied. It helps to isolate and identify the effects of the independent variable.
Randomization: Randomization is a technique used in experiments to assign participants or subjects randomly to different groups, reducing the impact of confounding variables.
Selection Bias: Selection bias occurs when there is a systematic difference between individuals selected for a study and those who are not, leading to biased results.
"Confounding Variables" appears in:
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Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (2)
- What is the purpose of investigating confounding variables in a statistical study?
- Which of the following statements about confounding variables is true?
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