A researcher uses the following hypothesis in a study: “Excessive list

A researcher uses the following hypothesis in a study: “Excessive listening to alternative music will lead to increased depression in young teenagers.”

Which of the following dependent variables would need to be defined operationally in the research study?
a. Alternative music
b. Depression
c. Excessive listening
d. Young teenagers

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: B
An operational definition is developed so that variables and other terms in a study can be measured or manipulated and so that readers can understand all parts of the study and will be able to replicate the study as closely as possible if desired. Although all of the listed variables and terms require an operational definition to provide a common and measurable understanding of the concepts, “depression” is the only dependent variable in the study as described.
Alternative music is not the dependent variable in this study. However, it does need to be defined as so to provide a clear understanding of this particular genre of music to the reader of the study.
Excessive listening is the independent variable in this study. It needs to be defined to provide a clear understanding of how the term “excessive” will be measured.
“Young teenagers” are the target population under study. A clear definition is required to provide a boundary for who is to be included in the study.