Technically, the name given to the INDEPENDENT VARIABLE when it can be manipulated by an experimenter. In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably.

Subjects in an EXPERIMENT who are exposed to the EXPERIMENTAL VARIABLE and whose BEHAVIOUR is expected to be influenced by it.

Contrasted with the CONTROL GROUP which is not exposed to the experimental variable.

A learned response to a given situation which occurs in such a regular fashion that it appears to be virtually automatic so it may even be mistaken for INNATE BEHAVIOUR and considered an INSTINCT.

Has been used mainly to describe a motive in some women to avoid doing well and achieving success (especially in competition with men) because their SOCIALISATION has led them to perceive such BEHAVIOUR as unfeminine. Now thought to be relevant to men also. Difficult to distinguish sometimes from FEAR OF FAILURE.

A statistical technique for analysing complex CORRELATIONS of scores and tracing the factors underlying these correlations.

Involuntary release of urine, such as bed-wetting in children, usually from emotional disturbance rather than organic causes.

The fourth, and last, main stage in PIAGET’S  theory of cognitive development, lasting from about 12 to 16 years of age. During this stage, the individual becomes able to handle problems involving abstract ideas and to reason logically.

A hypothetical biochemical memory trace, or physical representation of memory. Many psychologists have long assumed that the process of learning and remembering results in some physical changes in brain tissue, though no one has actually observed these changes.

In SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, the process of escalating commitment to a course of action in order to justify an initial investment in it. People may then feel trapped but find it increasingly difficult to break free. Derived from COGNITIVE DISSONANCE theory.

Thinking (including learning, memory and imagination) as opposed to sensing.