Mediation analysis

Abstract

Mediating variables are prominent in psychological theory and research. A mediating variable transmits the effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable. Differences between mediating variables and confounders, moderators, and covariates are outlined. Statistical methods to assess mediation and modern comprehensive approaches are described. Future directions for mediation analysis are discussed.

Figures

Figure 1

Mediation model.

Figure 2

Plot of the mediated effect. To simplify figure, no hats are included above coefficient estimates.