FIELD METHODS IN PSYCHOLOGY
MODULE 2: WHAT, WHY, AND HOW OF PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH
UNIT 2: VARIABLES IN PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH
A. Variables
- The core unit of a psychological research.
- The word implies that it varies and must have at least two levels, or values.
- Example: “72% of the world smiled yesterday” implies two levels of the variable ‘smile’;
that is 72% smiled and the remaining 28% did not.
Variable terms
Manipulated and Measured Variables
Researchers either measure or manipulate variables.
Some variables cannot be manipulated, they can only be measured (ex. Age, IQ)
Manipulated Measured
- Variables controlled by researcher - Variables whose levels are simply
- In experimental studies, this is referred to observed and recorded using tools or
as independent variable. scales.
- In experimental studies, this is called
Dependent variable.
Conceptual Variable and Operational Definition
Conceptual Variables Operational Variables
When variables are defined at a theoretical level. To operationalize means to turn a concept of
These are abstract concepts and sometimes referred interest into a measured or manipulated variable.
to as constructs.
*This is where we make abstract concepts more
specific in the context of research.
MODULE 2: WHAT, WHY, AND HOW OF PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH
UNIT 2: VARIABLES IN PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH
A. Variables
- The core unit of a psychological research.
- The word implies that it varies and must have at least two levels, or values.
- Example: “72% of the world smiled yesterday” implies two levels of the variable ‘smile’;
that is 72% smiled and the remaining 28% did not.
Variable terms
Manipulated and Measured Variables
Researchers either measure or manipulate variables.
Some variables cannot be manipulated, they can only be measured (ex. Age, IQ)
Manipulated Measured
- Variables controlled by researcher - Variables whose levels are simply
- In experimental studies, this is referred to observed and recorded using tools or
as independent variable. scales.
- In experimental studies, this is called
Dependent variable.
Conceptual Variable and Operational Definition
Conceptual Variables Operational Variables
When variables are defined at a theoretical level. To operationalize means to turn a concept of
These are abstract concepts and sometimes referred interest into a measured or manipulated variable.
to as constructs.
*This is where we make abstract concepts more
specific in the context of research.
