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discontinuous variable

a variable that has distinct, discrete values but no precise numerical flow. For example, gender can be thought of as a discontinuous variable with two possible values, male or female. In contrast, a continuous variable involves numerically precise information, such as height, weight, and miles per hour. Also called discrete variable.

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Psychology term of the day

February 22nd 2025

imaging

imaging

n.

1. the process of scanning the brain or other organs or tissues to obtain an optical image that can be used for medical and research purposes, such as locating abnormalities or studying anatomy and function. Techniques used include computed tomography, positron emission tomography (PET), anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (aMRI), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The imaging may be either static or dynamic. See also brain imaging; nuclear imaging.

2. in therapy, the use of suggested mental images to control body function, including the easing of pain. See also imagery technique; visualization.