Identifying Independent and Dependent Variables

Instructions: For each research description below, identify the independent variable and the dependent variable

1. A researcher hypothesizes that blondes (hair color) really do have more fun.

Independent variable: ________________________________

Dependent variable: ________________________________

2. A developmental psychologist is testing the hypothesis that children in first grade know more words in the English language than children in Kindergarten.

Independent variable: ________________________________

Dependent variable: ________________________________

3. A clinical psychologist hypothesizes that people who have been diagnosed as having major depression will be more likely to also be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder than will people who have not been diagnosed with major depression.

Independent variable: ________________________________

Dependent variable: ________________________________

4. A pharmacologist is testing whether a new anti-anxiety medication, Moodcor, will cause people to gain weight.

Independent variable: ________________________________ Dependent variable: ________________________________

5. A developmental psychologist believes that if children successfully lie to their friends, they will be more likely to try lying to their parents.

Independent variable: ________________________________ Dependent variable: ________________________________

6. A personality psychologist believes that people who are more aggressive are more likely to purchase sports cars than people who are less aggressive.

Independent variable: ________________________________

Dependent variable: ________________________________

7. A clinical psychologist hypothesizes that listening to an inspirational tape will lead one to be in a better mood.

Independent variable: ________________________________

Dependent variable: ________________________________

Learning outcomes addressed:

Understand the Scope of Psychology, the various areas in which psychologists work and do research and the scientific methods used to study psychology

Gain a basic knowledge of Psychology sufficient to be prepared for advanced courses in Psychology and/or conduct conversations with others familiar with psychological theories and terms