A confounding variable is a variable that varies along with the independent variable.

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The question states: 'A confounding variable is a variable that varies along with the independent variable.'
Option 1: True. This statement captures part of the idea that confounding variables are related to the exposure (independent variable). However, it omits a crucial element: a confounder must also be related to the outcome (dependent variable) and potentially distort the observed relationship between the IV and DV. Merely varying with the independent variable does not by itself establish confounding.
Option 2: False. This option is correct insofar as a confounding variable is defined not only by its association with the independent variable but also by its association with the dependent variable, and by its ability to distort the apparent relationship between IV and DV. If a variable varies with the IV but does not influence the DV (or is not associated with the DV), it would be more accurate to call it a mediator, a modifier, or simply a correlated covariate, rather than a confounder. The key point is the dual association: confounders must be linked to both the exposure and the outcome.
Further nuance: in study design and analysis, identifying confounders typically involves checking that the variable is associated with both the IV and the DV and that controlling for it changes the estimate of the IV–DV association. If a variable varies with the IV but has no relation to the DV, it does not fulfill the standard confounding criterion and would not bias the IV–DV estimate in the usual sense.
In sum, the statement as given is incomplete and misleading for defining confounding, because it ignores the necessary condition that the variable also relates to the dependent variable and can bias the effect estimate when not controlled.

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A confounding variable is a variable that varies along with the independent variable.

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PSY*4230*W01 2025- Final exam - Requires Respondus LockDown Browser

A confounding variable is a variable that varies along with the independent variable.

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

Why must researchers control for confounding variables?

Which of the following best describes confounding variables:

True or False: The improvements in mosquito nets are a confounding factor in this experiment.

Married people tend to live longer than unmarried people. It could be that they take better care of themselves when they have the responsibility of a family. It could also be that

In experimental design, confounding is:

Confounding variables are:

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PSY4230W01 2025- Final exam - Requires Respondus LockDown Browser