Question

Identify the independent variable, the dependent variable, and the unit of analysis in the following hypothesis:

a.       Interstate migration in the United States lowers state poverty levels.

b.      Documented immigrants in the United States are less likely than undocumented immigrants to use social welfare programs.

c.       On average, the annual household income of female-headed households is about 25% less than the annual household income of married couple households.

d.      Geographically, contiguous countries should experience higher rates of migration than noncontiguous countries.

e.       In the United States, fewer Blacks than Whites own their home as opposed to rent their home.

Answer 1

Independent variable is not dependent on any other variable and influences the dependent variable. Dependent variable changes due to the change in independent variable. Unit of analysis is what or who is being studied in a study.

a.

Independent variable: Interstate migration

Dependent variable: State poverty level

Unit of analysis: Interstate migrants (group of individuals who are migrating to other states).

b.

Independent variable: Type of immigrants (documented or undocumented)

Dependent variable: Use of social welfare programs

Unit of analysis: Immigrants

c.

Independent variable: Type of households (female-headed or married couple)

Dependent variable: Annual household income

Unit of analysis: Households

d.

Independent variable: Type of country (contiguous countries or noncontiguous countries)

Dependent variable: Rate of migration

Unit of analysis: Migrants.

e.

Independent variable: Race (Black or White)

Dependent variable: Owning or renting home

Unit of analysis: Individuals - blacks and whites.