Carryover Effect: Definition, Impact, and Control in Experiments

‘Carryover effect’ is a term frequently used in statistics and experimental design, referring to the lasting influence of a treatment or intervention on subsequent treatments or interventions.

In experimental design, researchers often expose participants in different groups or conditions to distinct treatments or interventions. However, sometimes, the preceding treatment or intervention can have a lingering effect on the subsequent ones, leading to the carryover effect.

This effect can potentially bias data or complicate the interpretation of research results. To mitigate the interference of the carryover effect, researchers typically employ strategies such as randomizing treatment order, introducing adequate washout periods, or utilizing cross-over design.

In essence, the carryover effect refers to the continued influence of a treatment or intervention on subsequent treatments or interventions, demanding careful consideration and control within experimental design.