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What was the dependent variable in the Sperry et al (1968) research?

  1. Participants' age

  2. Presence or absence of split brain

  3. Performance on various visual and tactile tasks

  4. Time taken to complete tasks

The correct answer is: Performance on various visual and tactile tasks

The dependent variable in Sperry et al. (1968) research was indeed performance on various visual and tactile tasks. This study aimed to investigate the effects of severing the corpus callosum, which connects the two hemispheres of the brain, on how participants processed information. By measuring performance in different tasks, researchers could assess the impact of split-brain surgery on cognitive functions. In this context, the researchers evaluated how well participants could identify objects presented to either the left or right visual field, as each hemisphere processes information differently after the split-brain procedure. Performance provided measurable data that revealed insights into lateralization of brain function. This focus highlights the importance of understanding how brain structure influences behavior and cognitive processing.