Mediating Analysis Approaches: Trends and Implications for Advanced Applications in HRD Research

Abstract

The Problem In HRD research, while mediation research is receiving more attention, less is known about to what extent it has been used and what methodological approaches have been adopted by HRD researchers. Also, several critical methodological issues such as the common method variance (CMV) are often indicated by researchers who utilize mediational analysis in their studies. These issues have been known to hinder sound theory-building efforts among HRD researchers. The Solution In addressing the problems, the purpose of this research is to examine the mediation studies conducted in the HRD discipline and to identify the general trends of mediation research and the frequently used analytical approaches supporting theory-building efforts of HRD researchers. The Academy of Human Resource Development (AHRD) journals between 2000 and 2014 were the primary research sample. Also, this study identifies various threats to conducting reliable and valid mediation studies through a thorough review of existing mediation studies from the AHRD journals. The Stakeholders Stakeholders include researchers conducting mediation studies in the HRD discipline currently and in the future, and practitioners who utilize mediation study findings for improving workplace performance. Based on the study findings, statistical and theoretical implications for future HRD research are discussed, and practical recommendations are drawn for HRD practitioners for workplace application.