For each of the following, identify the I.V. and D.V., how the variables are ope

Question

For each of the following, identify the I.V. and D.V., how the variables are operationalized, and indicate if the I.V. a subject variable or a manipulated variable. Additionally, tell me about the conclusions, are they valid? Why or why not?

A. In a study of the effectiveness of a new drug in treating depression, some patients receive the drug while others only think they are receiving it. A third group is not treated at all. After the program is completed, participants complete the Beck Depression Inventory. It is found that the drug group scored 12, the placebo group scored 14 and the non-treated group scored 20. The researchers conclude that the drug causes depression scores to be lowered.

Explanation / Answer

IV (Independent variable) = Drug or Placebo it is manipulated variable as it is actively changed or manipulated by the experimenter)

DV (Dependent variable) = Beck Depression Inventory score

Here researcher conclude that the drug causes depression scores to be lowered. But It might be invalid conclusion as Placebo group( only think they are receiving it) also shows the depression scores to be lowered 14 and very close to depression score in the active drug group (12). Therefore, cause-effect relationship might be due to placebo effect and it is possible that experimenter may miss the statistical significant once they compare the drug group with the placebo. The conclusion might be valid only if, experimenter observe the statistically significant difference between the drug group and placebo group.

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