National Counselor Exam (NCE)

In experimental research, how does an independent variable differ from a dependent variable?

1. The independent variable is manipulated, while the dependent variable is measured

2. Both variables are manipulated equally

3. The dependent variable is controlled, while the independent variable is ignored

4. The independent variable is constant, while the dependent variable varies

The correct answer is: The independent variable is manipulated, while the dependent variable is measured

In experimental research, the independent variable is the factor that the researcher deliberately manipulates to assess its effect on another variable. This means that the researcher changes or controls the independent variable to observe how it influences outcomes. On the other hand, the dependent variable is what is being measured or tested in the experiment. It represents the response or effect that is expected to change as a result of variations in the independent variable. For example, if a study is examining how different amounts of sunlight (independent variable) affect plant growth (dependent variable), the amount of sunlight is modified, while the growth of the plants is what researchers measure to see if there is a change. This clear distinction is central to the design of research studies, as the manipulation of the independent variable enables researchers to explore cause-and-effect relationships.