Dependent Variable

Definition

The dependent variable is the outcome or result that depends on changes made to other variables, particularly on changes made intentionally by researchers (independent variables).

Analogy

Consider baking cookies where you vary ingredients such as the amount of sugar. The dependent variable would be the taste and sweetness of the cookies, which depends on how much sugar you add.

Related terms

Outcome Variable: Similar to response variable, an outcome variable is what researchers measure as a result of manipulating variables.

Control Group: A control group is a group in an experiment that does not receive any treatment or manipulation of the independent variable. It serves as a baseline for comparison with the experimental group.

Confounding Variable: A confounding variable is an extraneous factor that influences both the independent and dependent variables, making it difficult to determine their true relationship.