Required sample size to detect the mediated effect
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Updated: Jul 15, 2026

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Published on: September 11, 2021
Matthew S Fritz1, David P Mackinnon
1Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Box 871104, Tempe, AZ 85287-1104, USA. matt.fritz@asu.edu
Abstract:
Mediation models are widely used, and there are many tests of the mediated effect. One of the most common questions that researchers have when planning mediation studies is, "How many subjects do I need to achieve adequate power when testing for mediation?" This article presents the necessary sample sizes for six of the most common and the most recommended tests of mediation for various combinations of parameters, to provide a guide for researchers when designing studies or applying for grants.
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