Psychology A-Level
confounding variables
What confounding variables means in Psychology A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of confounding variables
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain confounding variables in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Factors other than the IV that could affect the DV and that vary systematically with the IV, offering a rival explanation.
Topics that use confounding variables
- Planning and conducting research (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- behavioural category
- Counterbalancing
- directional and non-directional hypotheses
- ethical planning
- event sampling
- experimental control
- operationalisation
- order effects
Using confounding variables in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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