Scientific emphasis on casual conclusions

• What is a causal explanation based on in scientific terms?


  It is based on the notion that behavior is determined by internal/external factors.
• What does a causal explanation imply about behavior?


  It implies a cause and effect relationship.
• How is causation tested in scientific research?


  An independent variable is manipulated and the effect on the dependent variable is measured.
• What is the purpose of controlling extraneous variables in an experiment?


  To ensure that the independent variable is responsible for the change in the dependent variable.
• In Loftus and Palmer's research, what was manipulated as the independent variable?


  The critical verb in the question.
• What was measured as the dependent variable in Loftus and Palmer's research?


  The participants' estimated speed of the car.
• What conclusion did Loftus and Palmer reach regarding memory recall?


  Memory recall was biased by leading questions.
• What was the only factor that changed in Loftus and Palmer's experiment?


  The critical verb in the question.
• What are the key components of a causal explanation in scientific research?


  • Behavior is determined by internal/external factors
  • Establishes a cause and effect relationship
  • Involves manipulation of an independent variable
  • Measurement of the dependent variable
  • Control of extraneous variables
• What is the process of testing causation in an experiment?


  1. Manipulate the independent variable
  2. Measure the effect on the dependent variable
  3. Control extraneous variables
  4. Analyze the results to determine causation