In this research scenario, the dependent variable is "later vulnerability," and the independent variable is "history of early childhood abuse." The dependent variable is the outcome or characteristic that the researcher is interested in understanding or measuring. It is hypothesized that the independent variable, in this case, the history of early childhood abuse, may have an effect on the dependent variable, which is later vulnerability.
So, to summarize:
- Dependent variable: Later vulnerability
- Independent variable: History of early childhood abuse
The researcher would investigate whether there is a relationship between the independent variable (history of early childhood abuse) and the dependent variable (later vulnerability) by examining data and analyzing the potential correlations or patterns between the two variables.