Mediation analysis in partial least squares path modeling

Abstract

Purpose Indirect or mediated effects constitute a type of relationship between constructs that often occurs in partial least squares (PLS) path modeling. 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 However, many researchers continue to use outdated methods to test mediating effects in PLS, which can lead to erroneous results. One reason for the use of outdated methods or even the lack of their use altogether is that no systematic tutorials on PLS exist that draw on the newest statistical findings. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach This study illustrates the state-of-the-art use of mediation analysis in the context of PLS-structural equation modeling (SEM). Findings This study facilitates the adoption of modern procedures in PLS-SEM by challenging the conventional approach to mediation analysis and providing more accurate alternatives. In addition, the authors propose a decision tree and classification of mediation effects. Originality/value The 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.

Entrepreneurial orientation and engagement of Pakistani small and medium enterprises in sustainable development practices: Mediating role of knowledge management

“…The and composite reliability, and the validity of the data was examined through factor loadings, cross loadings, and Fornell-Larcker criterion (Henseler, Ringle, & Sarstedt, 2015). Furthermore, in structural model analysis, the strength and significance of hypothesized relationships were examined through magnitude of path coefficients, t values, p values, and variance accounted for (VAF) scores (Henseler et al, 2015;Hair, Matthews, Matthews, & Sarstedt, 2017;Nitzl, Roldán, & Cepeda, 2016). that most of the respondents have 2-5 years of job experience (N = 159), while 152 respondents have the experience of less than 2 years, and 124 respondents have more than 5 years of job experience.…”

Human Values and Work Engagement: The Mediating Role of Authenticity Among Workers in a Spanish Religious Organization

“…This article also conducts a mediation analysis. In PLS a step-wise approach is not necessary, as it is able to test mediating effects in a single model at once (Nitzl et al, 2016). The steps proposed by Zhao et al (2010), and later supported by others authors such as Nitzl et al (2016) and Hair et al (2017), for the mediator analysis procedure are the following: first, determining the significance of the indirect effect; second, determining the type of effect or of mediation.…”

“…In PLS a step-wise approach is not necessary, as it is able to test mediating effects in a single model at once (Nitzl et al, 2016). The steps proposed by Zhao et al (2010), and later supported by others authors such as Nitzl et al (2016) and Hair et al (2017), for the mediator analysis procedure are the following: first, determining the significance of the indirect effect; second, determining the type of effect or of mediation. Then, this model proves that there is an indirect positive and significant relationship between self-transcendence and work engagement (H6a) (path coefficient: 0.112 * * * ; t-value: 4.387), partially mediated by authenticity, as the direct effect self-transcendence-work engagement is also significant and positive (rejecting a significant indirect effect of authenticity on the self-enhancement-work engagement link).…”

Gastronomic satisfaction of the tourist: empirical study in the Creative City of Popayán, Colombia

“…In Table 8, the results of the mediating effects are detailed. In this case, [41] two-stage model is used. This consists of establishing the meaning of the indirect effects first of all and, secondly, determining the effects and/or the mediation.…”