anchor

n. a reference used when making a series of subjective judgments. For example, in an experiment in which participants gauge distances between objects, the experimenter introduces an anchor by informing the participants that the distance between two of the stimulus objects is a given value. That value then functions as a reference point for participants in their subsequent judgments. Similarly, the options listed for a multiple-choice test item provide an anchor for the test taker to use when answering.

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Psychology term of the day

December 27th 2024

unilateral descent

in anthropology, a system of descent or inheritance in which descent is traced through the male line only (patriarchy) or through the female line only (matriarchy). Also called unilineal descent. Compare bilateral descent. See also descent group.