The mediator and moderator are necessary variables for conducting research. However, there is a significant difference between them, which is important to consider. The mediator is an intermediary between two variables, dependent and independent. It determines the degree of influence of one value on another and is part of the effect of causation in the process of studying the issue (Reznik & Allen, 2017). Thus, the mediator aims to explain how and why a certain effect can be caused. In addition, the mediator arises as a consequence of the independent variable and explains its relationship with the dependent.
A moderator, in contrast, is a value or category that has an effect on the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. This results in changes in their direction, strength or level of interaction. As a result, the moderator shows what circumstances are needed for the variables to exist in a relationship (Reznik & Allen, 2017). As a rule, the moderator is directed to a judgment regarding the external validity of the study. In this way, limitations in derivation and further consideration of the issue, which depend on the conservation of variables, can be determined. Thus, the moderator can be divided into qualitative criteria, including race or gender, and quantitative ones, which consist of a numerical indicator, such as the level of remuneration.
Both moderator and mediator can be applied to the result of the first survey regarding satisfaction with the immediate supervisor, which reduces the level of staff turnover. In this case, the mediator can be a good relationship between the staff and the manager and a high level of trust in them. These factors affect the independent variable as employee turnover and the dependent variable, which depends on the opinion of employees. At the same time, the mediator can change these values depending on whether the relationship between the manager and their subordinates worsens or improves. If the upper administration respects its staff and appreciates each employee, satisfaction will be higher, which will make people stay in place due to good conditions. This principle works in reverse, if personnel feel disrespectful, then it is in their best interest to find a better position.
As for the potential moderator, they may be the level of remuneration for merit and the age of the staff. This explains by the fact that people of the same age group can quickly find a common language. Accordingly, if the age of superiors and subordinates is approximately the same, then this increases the chances of a successful relationship. In addition, high satisfaction with the line manager may depend on the level of remuneration for work. If the authorities write out bonuses, employees feel more significant for the company.
In a study of children’s cognitive development and reading ability, a parent’s level of education could be a potential mediator. This is explained by the fact that the socio-economic status of the adult generation allows the child to take an example from them and develop more successfully. At the same time, more educated parents are looking for an opportunity to give their child the same level of knowledge. Accordingly, constant reading contributes to faster cognitive growth. Another potential mediator may be the economic situation of the family. With medium and high finances, parents are not in constant stress and trying to earn money. They can spend more time on the development of children, thereby stimulating their cognitive level. The moderator can act as the number of hours that parents read to their children. If parents devote enough time, then children learn information faster. With fewer hours of reading, children may show lower cognitive performance.
A mediator in research on social exclusion may be bullying as a cause. A person is excluded from the group, arguing the decision with disrespectful behavior on the part of the individual. This may indicate initial aggression. However, the inability to continue expressing their emotions leads people to become increasingly angry and dissatisfied. In this case, the bullying against which the isolation was directed does not enter its expression and the person demonstrates more visible aggression. The moderator is the age of the individual and the time spent in social isolation. For example, teenagers tend to express their feelings more harshly and angry, which may be the reason for the increase in aggression. In addition, the longer people spend time alone, the less they have the opportunity to integrate into society. As a result, they begin to hate everyone around them, including those who do not apply strict measures against them.
With regard to defendants in relation to violent crimes, in this case, wearing glasses can act as a mediator. For some people, this piece of clothing gives a more sophisticated and innocent look, which convinces bystanders of bad intentions. Accordingly, the lack of points will influence their decision in favor of condemnation. At the same time, the moderator’s variable depends, for example, on the estimated price of the points. If they look expensive, then the criminal will be regarded as a successful person who is not directed to his own crimes.
Reference
Reznik, S. J., & Allen, J. J. (2017). Frontal asymmetry as a mediator and moderator of emotion: An updated review. Psychophysiology, 55(1), 1-32. Web.