An antecedent variable is a type of variable in research or statistical analysis that occurs before other variables in a causal chain or a process. It is considered a precursor or a predictor that influences the outcome of subsequent variables (often referred to as dependent or consequent variables). Antecedent variables can help in understanding how earlier conditions or factors contribute to later outcomes. For example, in a study examining the relationship between education and income, an antecedent variable could be socioeconomic status.
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