Moderation and Mediation (Midterm #2)

Question 1

Moderation

Answer 1

When the strength and/or direction of the relationship between an independent and dependent variable depends on a third variable: The third variable is called a moderator. It shows you for whom, when, or under what circumstances a relationship exists.

Question 2

Language used to describe moderation

Answer 2

“The relationship between X and Y is moderated by”
“The relationship between X and Y depends on…”
“This effect is true for these people, but not these people…”

Question 3

Moderator Sample 1: Implementation Intentions and Goal Completion

Answer 3

Independent variable: Implementation Intentions
Dependent variable: Goal completion
Moderator: Goal difficulty
Implementation intentions were useful for completing difficult goals, less relevant for completing easy goals. The relationship between implementation intentions and goal completion is moderated by goal difficulty.

Question 4

Moderator example 2: Rejection and Aggression

Answer 4

Only people high in rejection sensitivity behave aggressively following rejection. People low in rejection sensitivity do not change their behaviour in reaction to rejection. The relationship between rejection and aggression depends on rejection sensitivity.

Question 5

Mediation

Answer 5

Explains the mechanism that underlies a relationship between an independent and dependent variable via the inclusion of a third variable: The third variable is called a mediator.

Question 6

Language used to describe mediation

Answer 6

“The relationship between the independent and dependent variable is mediated by…”
“The independent variable influences the mediator which influences the dependent variable”
“The independent variable influences the dependent variable through the mediator”

Question 7

Mediator Example 1: Age and Self-Concept Clarity

Answer 7

Age influences concept clarity via role commitments. Being older is associated with more role commitments which are associated with higher self-concept clarity. Link between threat to self and increased self-esteem is mediated by prejudicial attitudes. Threat to self led to prejudicial attitudes which increased self-esteem.