In the context of experimental research, what is an extraneous variable?

An extraneous variable is one that can influence the outcome of an experiment by affecting the dependent variable, even though it is not the primary focus of the study. It is important to identify and control for these variables, as they can introduce noise or variability that may obscure the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. By doing so, researchers ensure that any observed effects are more likely due to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than the influence of these extraneous factors.

In experimental design, keeping extraneous variables in check enhances the reliability and validity of the findings, allowing for clearer conclusions about the causal relationships being investigated. Therefore, recognizing the role of extraneous variables is essential for conducting robust experimental research.