Final answer:
The independent variable(s) in the Finkel et al. study could include the types of yoga poses, the duration of yoga practice, or the presence or absence of meditation, while participant demographic variables like age and gender are not typically considered independent variables.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Finkel et al. (2009) "Yoga" study on aggression in close relationships, the independent variable(s) refers to the component that the researchers manipulate to observe the effect on the dependent variable, which in this case would be the aggression levels. Based on the options provided and without specific details of the study design, it's challenging to determine the exact independent variable(s) used in the study. However, common independent variables in yoga-related studies often include factors such as the types of yoga poses (a), the duration of yoga practice (b), or the presence or absence of meditation (d). Participant characteristics like age and gender (c) are typically considered as demographic variables rather than independent variables unless the study is specifically examining the effects of these factors on outcomes.
Yoga entails a comprehensive approach to well-being, encompassing ethical guidelines (yam's and niyama's), physical postures (asana), breath control (pranayama), concentration techniques, and meditation. As such, aspects of yoga that could potentially serve as independent variables in experimental studies include the meditation component, which is part of the seventh limb of yoga, aiming to lead practitioners to a state of samadhi, or oneness with the supreme soul.