The variable in the research which is purposely manipulated by the researcher is called:

AIIMS Raipur lecturer 2021

Nursing Research & Statistics

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur lecturer 2021

Explanation

The independent variable is defined as the factor, condition, or treatment that the researcher intentionally manipulates or controls.
Its purpose is to observe the resulting effect on another variable, known as the dependent variable.
In experimental studies, the independent variable is considered the 'cause' in a cause-and-effect relationship.
For instance, in a trial testing a new nursing intervention to reduce patient falls, the intervention itself is the independent variable.

Option A: The dependent variable is the outcome that is measured to see if the manipulation had an effect; it is not the variable being manipulated. Its value 'depends' on the independent variable.
Option B: A dichotomous variable is one that has only two categories (e.g., 'yes' or 'no'). This term describes the nature of the variable's data, not its role in a cause-and-effect experiment.
Option D: This is a broad, generic term. While an independent variable is a type of research variable, 'independent variable' is the specific and correct term for a variable that is purposely manipulated.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Variables in Research Methodology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between independent and dependent variables is fundamental for nurses to critically appraise research studies and apply evidence-based practice.
When reading a study about a new wound care dressing (independent variable) and its effect on healing time (dependent variable), a nurse can better evaluate the study's claims and decide if the evidence is strong enough to change practice.
What if? If a study is purely observational (e.g., a descriptive study), there is no manipulated independent variable. The researcher simply observes relationships between variables as they exist naturally, such as the correlation between hours of sleep (a research variable) and self-reported stress levels (another research variable).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'purposely manipulated'.
Recall the definitions of different types of variables used in research methodology.
Associate the act of 'manipulation' or 'intervention' with the definition of an independent variable.
Consider the role of the dependent variable as the 'outcome' or 'effect' that is measured, not manipulated.
Eliminate 'dichotomous variable' as it describes the structure of data (two categories), not its experimental role.
Recognize that 'research variable' is a general term, and 'independent variable' is the specific term for the concept described.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 NursingResearch Suresh Sharma 5e Part 1 pp. 86-88, 87-89

E6 NursingResearch Sukhpal Kaur p. 97-99