Social Research Methods: Variable
Variable is anything that varies; has multiple values.
Dependency
## Independent variable Other variable can depend on independent variables. In the case, they are the causes.
Dependent variable
The effect of the varaibles which the dependent variable depends on.
Relationship
- Linear (positive or negative)
- Curvilinear
- Nothing
Studying relationship
### Non-experimental method Behavior is observed as it naturally occurs.
It allows to observe the real world. Sometimes it is possible to observe in a more macro scale, which is useful to evaluate predictions.
Experimental method
All variables are controlled by concious and random assignment.
It allows to infer causuality:
- The problems of inferring cause and effect can be addressed.
- Variables which a specfic varible depends on can be identified.
Experimental method is more restricted by ethics.
