Mediation Analysis in Partial Least Squares Path Modeling: Helping Researchers Discuss More Sophisticated Models

Industrial Management & Data Systems, Forthcoming

31 Pages Posted: 5 Jun 2016

See all articles by Christian Nitzl

Christian Nitzl

University of the German Federal Armed Forces - Universität der Bundeswehr München

José L. Roldán

University of Seville

Gabriel Cepeda Carrión

University of Seville

Date Written: June 3, 2016

Abstract

Purpose – Indirect or mediated effects constitute a type of relationship between constructs that often occurs in partial least squares path modeling (PLS). Over the past few years, the methods for testing mediation have become more sophisticated. However, many researchers continue to use outdated methods to test mediating effects in PLS, which can lead to erroneous results. One reason for the use of outdated methods or even the lack of their use altogether is that no systematic tutorials on PLS exist that draw on the newest statistical findings.

Design/methodology/approach – This study illustrates the state-of-the-art use of mediation analysis in the context of PLS.

Findings – This study facilitates the adoption of modern procedures in PLS by challenging the conventional approach to mediation analysis and providing alternatives that are more accurate. In addition, we propose a decision tree and classification of mediating effects.

Originality/value – Our recommended approach offers a wide range of testing options (e.g., multiple mediators) that go beyond simple mediation analysis alternatives, helping researchers discuss their studies in a more accurate way.

Keywords: Mediation Analysis, Indirect Effects, Bootstrapping, Multiple Mediation, Partial Least Squares, PLS, Structural Equation Modeling

Suggested Citation

Nitzl, Christian and Roldán, José L. and Cepeda Carrión, Gabriel, Mediation Analysis in Partial Least Squares Path Modeling: Helping Researchers Discuss More Sophisticated Models (June 3, 2016). Industrial Management & Data Systems, Forthcoming , Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2789370

Christian Nitzl (Contact Author)

University of the German Federal Armed Forces - Universität der Bundeswehr München ( email )

Werner-Heisenberg-Weg 39
Neubiberg
Munich, 85579
Germany

José L. Roldán

University of Seville ( email )

Departamento de Administración de Empresas y Marke
Av. Ramón y Cajal, 1
Sevilla, Sevilla 41018
Spain

HOME PAGE: http://personal.us.es/jlroldan

Gabriel Cepeda Carrión

University of Seville ( email )

Avda. del Cid s/n
Sevilla, Sevilla 41004
Spain

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