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A Comparison of Bias and Mean Squared Error in Parameter Estimates of Interaction Effects: Moderated Multiple
Abstract:
The results of moderated multiple regression (MMR) are highly affected by the unreliability of the predictor variables (regressors). Errors-in-variables regression (EIVR) may remedy this problem as it corrects for measurement error in the regressors, and thus provides less biased parameter estimates. However, little is known about the properties of the EIVR estimators in the moderator variable context. The present study used simulation methods to compare the moderator variable detection capabilities of MMR and EIVR. Specifically, the study examined the bias and mean squared error of the MMR and EIVR estimates under varying conditions of sample size, reliability of the predictor variables, and intercorrelations among the predictor variables. Findings showed that EIVR estimates are superior to MMR estimates when sample size is high (i.e., at least 250) and the reliabilities of the predictors are high (i.e., rij ≥ .65). However, MMR appears to be the better strategy when reliabilities or sample size are low.
Insights
Errors-in-variables regression (EIVR) offers less biased estimates than moderated multiple regression (MMR) when predictor reliability and sample size are high. MMR is preferable for low reliability or small sample sizes in moderator analysis.
Area of Science:
- Statistics
- Psychometrics
- Social Sciences
Background:
- Moderated multiple regression (MMR) results are sensitive to unreliability in predictor variables.
- Errors-in-variables regression (EIVR) can correct for measurement error, potentially yielding less biased estimates.
- The performance of EIVR in moderator analysis contexts is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of MMR and EIVR in detecting moderator variables.
- To investigate the bias and mean squared error of MMR and EIVR estimators under various conditions.
Main Methods:
- The study employed simulation methods to evaluate MMR and EIVR.
- Evaluated estimator bias and mean squared error.
- Varied sample size, predictor reliability, and intercorrelations among predictors.
Main Results:
- EIVR provided superior estimates to MMR when sample size was large (≥250) and predictor reliabilities were high (≥.65).
- MMR demonstrated better performance with low predictor reliabilities or small sample sizes.
- The choice between MMR and EIVR depends on data characteristics.
Conclusions:
- EIVR is a valuable alternative to MMR for moderator analysis, especially with high-quality data.
- MMR remains a suitable choice when dealing with measurement error or limited sample sizes.
- Researchers should consider data reliability and sample size when selecting a regression strategy for moderator analysis.
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