In applied behavior analysis, what is the term for the variable measured to determine changes resulting from manipulation of the independent variable, representing socially significant behavior?

• A. Independent Variable
• B. Control Variable
• C. Dependent Variable
• D. Operational Definition

Answer: (C)

The dependent variable is the measured outcome—the observable behavior you track across baseline and after introducing the treatment to see if there is a change. This variable represents the socially significant behavior you want to improve, so changes in its level indicate the effect of manipulating the independent variable. The independent variable is the treatment you change, while a control variable is kept constant to prevent confounding, and an operational definition is the precise description of the target behavior so observations are reliable and consistent.