multiple regression

a statistical technique for examining the linear relationship between a continuous dependent variable and a set of two or more independent variables. It is often used to predict a single outcome variable from a set of predictor variables. For example, an educational psychology researcher could use multiple regression to predict college achievement (e.g., grade point average) from the variables of high school grade point average, Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) reading score, SAT mathematics score, and SAT writing score. When a single predictor and a single outcome are involved the process is known as linear regression. Also called multiple linear regression.

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Psychology term of the day

February 22nd 2025

reciprocal inhibition

1. a technique in behavior therapy that aims to replace an undesired response (e.g., anxiety) with a desired one by counterconditioning. It relies on the gradual substitution of a response that is incompatible with the original one and is potent enough to neutralize the anxiety-evoking power of the stimulus. See also systematic desensitization. [devised by Joseph Wolpe]

2. in neuroscience, the inhibition of one spinal reflex when another is elicited. [proposed by Charles Scott Sherrington]

3. a neural mechanism that prevents opposing muscles from contracting at the same time.

4. the inability to recall two associated ideas or items because of their interference with each other.