Mediation
David A. Kenny · Wiley StatsRef: Statistics Reference Online · 2014
Abstract A mediator explains, at least in part, a causal relationship between two variables. The total relationship between the two variables is due to a indirect effect, that part explained by the mediator, and due to an direct effect, that part not explained be the mediator. Strong assumptions must be made to estimate and test mediation. The inclusion of multiple variables complicates mediational analysis. Mediational analysis while seemingly simple is actually quite complex.