In which experimental design does the dependent variable precede the independent variable in time?

The premise of the question is about the relationship between independent and dependent variables in research designs. In any experimental design, the independent variable is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable. Hence, it is essential that the independent variable precedes the dependent variable in time to establish a cause-and-effect relationship.

The rationale for stating that "none of the above; the IV should always precede the DV" is rooted in the fundamental principles of experimental design. A core tenet of designing experiments is the assertion that for any observed change in the dependent variable, the independent variable must be manipulated first. This sequential relationship is crucial for asserting that any observed effects are due to the manipulation of the independent variable rather than pre-existing conditions or influences.

In a true experimental design, the researcher randomly assigns participants to groups and manipulates the independent variable, ensuring that the effects on the dependent variable can be confidently attributed to the manipulation. Similarly, in quasi-experimental designs, while random assignment may not occur, the manipulation of the independent variable still occurs before measuring the dependent variable. Therefore, any suggestion that the dependent variable might precede the independent variable contradicts the fundamental logic of establishing causation.

Thus, it is correct to affirm that in any proper experimental framework