Defining the dependent variable: measured operational definitions
Dependent variables are defined by measured operational definitions, which describe what we do to measure the variables. Measured operational definitions of dependent variable describe exactly what procedures we follow to assess the impact of different treatment conditions. These definitions include exact descriptions of the specific behaviors or responses recorded and also explain how those responses are scored. If we are using scores on a standardized test to measure our dependent variable, we identify the test by name: “scores on the Wechler Adult Intelligence test. ” If our dependent measure is not standardized, we describe it in enough detail to allow other researchers to repeat our procedures. In Schachter’s experiment the dependent variable, affiliation, was given a measured operatoinal definition. Schachter scored the desire to affiliate by having subjects check off their preferences on a questionnaire. The questionnaire is described in detail in his report. Again, it would be easy to replicate his procedures for measuring affiliation: We would simply administer the same questionnaire in the same way.