Univariate Statistics

Univariate statistics refer to all statistical analyses that include a single dependent variable and can include one or more independent variables. Univariate statistics represent some of the most commonly used statistical analyses in communication research. Univariate statistics utilize inferential statistics, which, under ideal conditions, allow researchers to infer a causal relationship between the independent and dependent variable and generalize the results of their analyses conducted on a smaller sample to a larger population. This entry begins with a discussion of how univariate statistics are used in communication research and concludes with a brief overview of a few frequently used types of parametric and nonparametric univariate methods of analysis.