> >Paul Brandon wrote:
> >
> >> An _intervening variable_ is one that has no pretense to real existence; an
> >> explanatory fiction.
> >
And I responded:
> >I think it's the other way around. Is there a tie-breaker on the list?
Paul answered (off list):
> You might check:
> MacCorquodale, K., & Meehl, P. E. (1948). On a distinction between
> hypothetical constructs and intervening variables. Psychological Review,
> 55, 95-107.
>
> A 'hypothetical' construct is one which has been _hypothesized_ to exist;
> that hypothesis has not yet been confirmed.
> An intervening variable is just that: a _variable_ interposed between the
> independent variable and the dependent variable as an aid to prediction.
> It's certainly possible that others may define the terms differently, but I
> believe that this was the original.
To which I'll reply, "Uncle!"
Paul was correct--a good example being -
habit - intervening variable
engram - hypothetical construct
I'm glad my mentors are not on this list.
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* Mike Scoles * [EMAIL PROTECTED] *
* Department of Psychology * voice: (501) 450-5418 *
* University of Central Arkansas * fax: (501) 450-5424 *
* Conway, AR 72035-0001 * *
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