Ginkgo Biloba is a herb that is thought to increase blood flow in the brain and enhance memory processes. In a carefully controlled study investigating this claim, young adults were assigned to one of three groups. Those in group 1 took a capsule containing 120 milligrams of ginkgo biloba once a day. Those in group 2 took a capsule that looked identical but was a fake. Those in group 3 did not take any capsules. The participants assigned to group 2 constituted the _____ in this study.
A)dependent variable
B)placebo group
C)extraneous group
D)out-of-control group

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The participants assigned to group 2 were given a placebo, which is an inert substance or fake treatment given to control for the placebo effect. The placebo effect occurs when a person experiences a response to a treatment, even though the treatment has no therapeutic effect. In this study, the placebo group was used to control for the expectation or belief that taking ginkgo biloba would improve memory processes, allowing researchers to see whether any improvements observed in the group taking the herb were due to its active ingredients or simply due to the placebo effect.

Ginkgo Biloba Is a Herb That Is Thought to Increase