subjects-to-variables ratio

the number of research participants compared to the number of research variables (e.g., 5 to 1) in a study. The subjects-to-variables ratio provides a guideline for determining what size sample to use to ensure the greatest power when conducting a statistical analysis, such as multiple regression or factor analysis.

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Psychology term of the day

January 13th 2025

discontinuity hypothesis

in Gestalt psychology, the viewpoint that emphasizes the role of sudden insight and perceptual reorganization in successful discrimination learning and problem solving. According to this view, a correct answer is only recognized when its relation to the issue as a whole is discovered. Also called discontinuity theory. Compare continuity hypothesis. See also aha experience; all-or-none learning; eureka task.