Variables:

Let’s focus now on two types of variables: independent and dependent. The distinction between the two is that the independent variable is typically viewed as the “cause” variable and the dependent variable is viewed as the “effect” variable. The independent variable is what the researcher varies (if the researcher includes a manipulation in the study) and the dependent variable is the outcome of those variations. What Are Independent, Dependent And Controlled Variables?

This assignment is practice for the final assessment.

1. Design a study testing the therapeutic effects of a drug on depressive symptoms. Be sure to clearly identify an independent variable and a dependent variable.

2. Next, design a study comparing the therapeutic effects of a drug to the therapeutic effects of exercise on depressive symptoms.

3. For each of these, be sure to clearly identify:

an independent variable and a dependent variable.
What is your hypothesis?
What species will you use to test this?
What are some of the benefits and challenges to testing the control and experimental conditions on the same people as opposed to testing those conditions on different people?