Confounding and Extraneous Variables
Confounding / extraneous Appropriate solution
variables
One extraneous variable that commonly occurs
in research is researcher bias. This is when a
researcher interprets behaviour / responses in
a bias way in order to support their hypothesis.
Another extraneous variable that could occur is
that of a significant noise distraction. If all
participants are undertaking a test and e.g. fire
alarm goes off and distracts them.
One confounding variable that commonly
occurs is social desirability bias. Some
participants may purposely change their
behaviour in order to present themselves in a
positive light.
Another confounding variable in research is
participant variables. Some participants may
have specific characteristics that will enhance
their ability, for example high intelligence OR
athleticism. This will give them an unfair
advantage in comparison to participants they
are being compared against.
One way of solving this issue is to adopt the double-blind technique. This is where neither
the person conducting the research, nor the participants know the aim of the study. Thus,
adopting an unbiased position.
One way of solving this issue is to use a matched pairs design OR a repeated measures
design. This will help minimise participant characteristics.
One way to solve this issue is to reinforce the need for participant honesty. Participant’s
privacy and anonymity can be assured.
One way of solving this issue is to ensure research is undertaken in an area whereby no
noise distractions can occur. For example, a specially designed laboratory.
Confounding / extraneous Appropriate solution
variables
One extraneous variable that commonly occurs
in research is researcher bias. This is when a
researcher interprets behaviour / responses in
a bias way in order to support their hypothesis.
Another extraneous variable that could occur is
that of a significant noise distraction. If all
participants are undertaking a test and e.g. fire
alarm goes off and distracts them.
One confounding variable that commonly
occurs is social desirability bias. Some
participants may purposely change their
behaviour in order to present themselves in a
positive light.
Another confounding variable in research is
participant variables. Some participants may
have specific characteristics that will enhance
their ability, for example high intelligence OR
athleticism. This will give them an unfair
advantage in comparison to participants they
are being compared against.
One way of solving this issue is to adopt the double-blind technique. This is where neither
the person conducting the research, nor the participants know the aim of the study. Thus,
adopting an unbiased position.
One way of solving this issue is to use a matched pairs design OR a repeated measures
design. This will help minimise participant characteristics.
One way to solve this issue is to reinforce the need for participant honesty. Participant’s
privacy and anonymity can be assured.
One way of solving this issue is to ensure research is undertaken in an area whereby no
noise distractions can occur. For example, a specially designed laboratory.
