instrumentation effect

any change in the dependent variable in a study that arises from changes in the measuring instrument used. For example, an experimenter may subtly but unintentionally alter his or her testing method across sessions, such that a pretest and a posttest are administered differently. Instrumentation effects pose a threat to internal validity.

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Psychology term of the day

January 28th 2025

thermoanesthesia

1. loss or absence of the ability to distinguish between heat and cold by touch.

2. insensitivity to heat. Also called thermanesthesia.