Max Rady College of Medicine

Term: Main Effect

Printer friendly

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2006-10-20

Definition:

"The simple effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable; the effect of an independent variable uninfluenced by other variables. Used in contrast with the interaction effect of two or more independent variables on a dependent variable. There is some controversy about whether it is appropriate to try to interpret main effects in the presence of interaction effects."

Related terms 

References 

  • Vogt W Paul. Dictionary of Statistics and Methodology: A Nontechnical Guide for the Social Sciences. Newbury Park, California: Sage Publications; 1993.(View)

Term used in 

  • Lix L, Yogendran M, Burchill C, Metge C, McKeen N, Moore D, Bond R. Defining and Validating Chronic Diseases: An Administrative Data Approach. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2006. [Report] [Summary] (View)
  • Martens P, Fransoo R, The Need to Know Team, Burland E, Prior H, Burchill C, Romphf L, Chateau D, Bailly A, Ouelette C. What Works? A First Look at Evaluating Manitoba's Regional Health Programs and Policies at the Population Level. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2008. [Report] [Summary] [Additional Materials] (View)


Request information in an accessible format

If you require access to our resources in a different format, please contact us:

We strive to provide accommodations upon request in a reasonable timeframe.

Contact us

Manitoba Centre for Health Policy
Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine,
Rady Faculty of Health Sciences,
Room 408-727 McDermot Ave.
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5 Canada

204-789-3819