What is a third variable?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of what a third variable is, likely in the context of statistics or research methodology where it can affect the relationship between two other variables.
Answer
An unmeasured variable that influences the independent and dependent variables.
A third variable is an unmeasured variable that may influence both the independent and dependent variables in an observed relationship, leading to a potentially incorrect conclusion about the nature of their relationship.
Answer for screen readers
A third variable is an unmeasured variable that may influence both the independent and dependent variables in an observed relationship, leading to a potentially incorrect conclusion about the nature of their relationship.
More Information
Third variables, also known as confounding variables, can distort the apparent relationship between two other variables by providing an alternative explanation for the observed effect.
Tips
A common mistake is failing to consider potential third variables in an analysis, leading to false attribution of causation.
Sources
- Third Variable Problem: Definition & Example - Statology - statology.org
- Confounding Variables ~ The Third Variable - BachelorPrint - bachelorprint.com
- Confounding Variables | Definition, Examples & Controls - Scribbr - scribbr.com
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