The Relative Validity of Inferences About Mediation as a Function of Research Design Characteristics
- 23 July 2007
- journal article
- research article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Organizational Research Methods
- Vol. 11 (2), 326-352
- https://doi.org/10.1177/1094428107300342
Abstract
Tests of assumed mediation models are common in the organizational sciences. However, the validity of inferences about mediation is a function of experimental design and the setting of a study. Regrettably, most tests of mediation have relied on the application of so-called ``causal modeling'' techniques to data from nonexperimental studies. As we demonstrate, inferences about the validity of assumed mediation models are highly suspect when they are based on the findings of nonexperimental research. One of the many reasons for this is the failure of the model being tested to be consistent with reality. Valid research-based inferences about mediation are possible. However, inferences from such tests are most likely to be valid when they are based on research that uses randomized experimental designs. Strategies for conducting research using these and other designs are described. Finally, we offer a set of conclusions and recommendations that stem from our analysis.Keywords
This publication has 23 references indexed in Scilit:
- The Attenuating Effect of Role Overload on Relationships Linking Self-Efficacy and Goal Level to Work Performance.Journal of Applied Psychology, 2005
- Self-efficacy as a mediator of the relationship between perceived union barriers and women's participation in union activities.Journal of Applied Psychology, 1997
- Critical comments on applying covariance structure modelingJournal of Organizational Behavior, 1995
- Structural Equations with Latent VariablesPublished by Wiley ,1989
- As Others See Us: A Case Study in Path AnalysisJournal of Educational Statistics, 1987
- Comments on Professor Freedman's PaperJournal of Educational Statistics, 1987
- The moderator–mediator variable distinction in social psychological research: Conceptual, strategic, and statistical considerations.Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 1986
- External validity is more than skin deep: Some answers to criticisms of laboratory experiments.American Psychologist, 1982
- Motivation through the design of work: test of a theoryOrganizational Behavior and Human Performance, 1976
- Construct validity in psychological tests.Psychological Bulletin, 1955