Course: Statistics
A discrete variable is a type of statistical term referring to data points that can only take on certain distinct values.
Discrete variables are a fundamental concept in social research. When we measure things, we often use numbers. The way these numbers can appear determines if they’re discrete or not. Discrete variables are unique because they can only take certain distinct values. Imagine a collection of separated dots; you can’t have half a dot, right? That’s the essence of a discrete variable!
Discrete Variables in Criminal Justice
In criminal justice, researchers often work with this type of variable. For instance, let’s talk about the number of times a person is convicted of a crime. This number is not really divisible into parts. After all, a person can’t be convicted 2.5 times! The possible values might be 0, 1, 2, and so on, but nothing in between.
Social Work
Now let’s look at social work. Social workers track data like the number of therapy sessions a client attends. This is another example. After all, a client can attend 3 or 4 sessions, but not 3.5. This variable helps social workers understand their clients’ engagement and track their progress.
Political Science
Political science, too, utilizes this distinction. Consider the number of bills a legislator sponsors. This number is a discrete variable. Afterward, a legislator can’t sponsor 1.5 bills. They either sponsor a whole bill or none at all, making this a good example of this type of variable in political science.
In Summary: Understanding Discrete Variables
All in all, discrete variables play a key role in social research. They allow researchers in various fields, including criminal justice, social work, and political science, to measure and analyze distinct, non-divisible quantities. After all, understanding the difference between half a session, half a conviction, or half a bill makes little sense. Above all, it is the discrete nature of these variables that help us make sense of the world around us. And that’s the true power of discrete variables in social research!