Question

In experimental research examining the effects of two different kinds of therapy for adolescents with anxiety, which item would MOST likely serve as the independent variable?
a. level of anxiety before and after treatment
b. type of treatment given to the adolescents
c. number of times anxiety is measured
d. gender of the participants

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. Type of treatment given to the adolescents

Explanation:

In experimental research, the independent variable is a factor or "treatment" manipulated by the researchers. Moreover, because this is manipulated it is used to measure how another variable known as the dependent variable changes. In the research about anxiety, it is likely the independent variable is the type of treatment (option B) because this is the factor controlled by researchers. Also, this has an effect on the levels of anxiety, which is the dependent variable or main factor studied.