dependent events

in probability theory, events that have a relationship such that the outcome of one affects the outcome of the other. For example, overeating and being overweight are dependent events, whereas shoe size and political party preference are most likely not. Compare independent events.

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Psychology term of the day

December 23rd 2024

illusion of control

a false belief that external events result from or are governed by one’s own actions or choices. A sports fan who wears the same “lucky” shirt for each home game in order to give his or her team an edge provides an example. See positive illusion. [coined in 1975 by U.S. social and clinical psychologist Ellen Langer (1947– )]