Moderator Variables in Personality Research: The Problem of Controlling for Plausible Alternatives

1992/04/01 by Jay G. Hull, Judith C. Tedlie, Daniel A. Lehn · 1 voice · 2 citations
Computer Science · Psychology · #Advanced Statistical Modeling Techniques #Cognitive and psychological constructs research #Cultural Differences and Values

paper · doi:10.1177/0146167292182001

openalex publication_date 1992/04/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22

Abstract

Alternative variable problems are common in personality research. Given a restriction to correlational designs, it is always possible that a particular personality variable is related to a particular behavior because both are related to some third, unmeasured construct. This being the case, researchers often use designs that involve the measurement of potential alternatives and analysis of covariance or multiple regression to statistically "control" their influence. Unfortunately, when using these techniques to control for the moderating influence of an alternative variable, some rearchers appear to use the wrong covariate. These researchers enter a linear covariate when in fact the postulation of an alternative moderator requires the entry of a covariate interaction. The authors elaborate the logic of this argument and provide an empirical example.

Citations

• The moderator–mediator variable distinction in social psychological research: Conceptual, strategic, and statistical considerations.

Cited by

• The Interpersonal Effects of Anger and Happiness in Negotiations.
• The Intrinsic Self and Defensiveness: Evidence that Activating the Intrinsic Self Reduces Self-Handicapping and Conformity

Discussions

• A short paper from 1992 in relation to this point (aside from Yzerbyt et al., 2004): Hull, Tedlie, & Lehn (1992). Moderator variables in personality research: The problem of controlling for plausible [bsky, 0 points, 0 comments]