Final answer:
Counterbalancing is used to manage order effects in an experiment by varying the sequence of treatments and is a part of a well-designed experimental strategy to reduce bias and lurking variables.
Step-by-step explanation:
Counterbalancing is used to control order effects in an experiment. This technique involves systematically varying the order of treatments to prevent the sequence from affecting the results. When employing counterbalancing, all subjects experience both treatments, and the order in which they receive these treatments is randomly assigned. This process helps in reducing potential lurking variables that may affect the outcomes of the experiment, ensuring that when treatment groups respond differently, the difference is likely due to the influence of the independent variable, rather than the order in which the treatments were administered. Random assignment and the creation of a control group, which might receive a placebo treatment, are also critical elements of sound experimental design for eliminating bias and ensuring the validity of the experimental results.