When determining mediation in the context of stress research, which statistical approach is most commonly used to test whether a third variable explains the relationship between an independent variable and a dependent variable?

• A. Cluster analysis
• B. Chi-square test
• C. Factor analysis
• D. Regression analysis with mediation models

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of mediation: Mediation occurs when a third variable (mediator) explains the relationship between an independent variable (IV) and a dependent variable (DV). This means the IV influences the mediator, which in turn influences the DV.
2. Identify the variables involved: The independent variable (IV), the dependent variable (DV), and the mediator variable (M) that potentially explains the relationship between IV and DV.
3. Use regression analysis to test mediation by following these steps: First, regress the mediator (M) on the independent variable (IV) to see if IV predicts M.
4. Next, regress the dependent variable (DV) on both the independent variable (IV) and the mediator (M) to examine if the mediator accounts for the effect of IV on DV.
5. Evaluate the mediation effect by checking if the direct effect of IV on DV decreases when the mediator is included in the model, often using specific mediation models such as the Baron and Kenny approach or bootstrapping methods.