Using WarpPLS in E-Collaboration Studies: Mediating Effects, Control and Second Order Variables, and Algorithm Choices

Testing The Significance Of Mediating Effects

Using WarpPLS, one can test the significance of a mediating effect of a variable M, which is hypothesized to mediate the relationship between two other variables X and Y, by using Baron and Kenny’s (1986) criteria. The procedure is outlined below. It can be easily adapted to test multiple mediating effects, and more complex mediating effects (e.g., with multiple mediators). Please note that we are not referring to moderating effects here; these can be tested directly with WarpPLS, by adding moderating links to a model.

First two models must be built. The first model should have X pointing at Y, without M being included in the model. (You can have the variable in the WarpPLS model, but there should be no links from or to it.) The second model should have X pointing at Y, X pointing at M, and M pointing at Y. This is a “triangle”-looking model. A WarpPLS analysis must be conducted with both models, which may be saved in two different project files; this analysis may use linear or nonlinear analysis algorithms. The mediating effect will be significant if the three following criteria are met:

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  In the first model, the path between X and Y is significant (e.g., P < 0.05, if this is the significance level used).

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  In the second model, the path between X and M is significant.

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  In the second model, the path between M and Y is significant.