dichotomous variable

n. The simplest type of categorical variable in which there are only two possible values or levels (e.g., true or false, male or female). Dichotomous variables are considered discrete, qualitative variables as they provide categorical classification with no quantitative relationship between the levels of the variables. When coding dichotomous variables, one can use any coding system that specifies two different values. If a 1/0 system is used, it is referred to as dummy coding; if a 1/—1 system is used, it is called effect coding. Dichotomous variables are most useful for examining broad comparisons.

- BJM