In an experiment, the independent variable is always
A) changed by the subjects.
B) confounded by other variables.
C) controlled by the researcher.
D) created by other researchers.
E) considered by the control group.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The independent variable is the variable that is intentionally manipulated by the researcher in order to observe the effect on the dependent variable. Therefore, it must be controlled by the researcher. The subjects do not change the independent variable, they are subject to the manipulation of the independent variable. Other variables may confound the results, but this does not mean that the independent variable itself is confounded. The independent variable may be created by other researchers, but it is still controlled by the researcher in the experiment. The control group is a comparison group that is not exposed to the independent variable, they are not considered by the independent variable itself.

In an Experiment, the Independent Variable Is Always