# Comparing three different measures' performance within a model?

I'm comparing how well three different measures of one construct perform within the model I use for my research. Within the model, the construct I am investigating is a moderator variable. The model is comprised of two predictors, two mediators, and one outcome variable, with the moderator affecting the predictor -> mediator path.

Two of the three measures have subscales that I'd also be interested in investigating.

What is the best way to analyze this? I want to preserve as much power as possible and be computationally efficient as I'm working in R.

• The offered bounty is low for the level of the question and the time one needs to spend to write a good answer.

• Thanks for the comment! I'm new here and was not familiar with the bounty system. Adjusting now.

• Based on your description, it seems like you have a moderated mediation model. One possible approach to analyze this would be to conduct a series of multiple group analyses, where you compare the fit of the model using each of the three measures of the moderator variable.

• Specifically, you would create three groups in your data set, with each group representing a different measure of the moderator variable. You would then fit your moderated mediation model separately to each group and compare the fit statistics. I am not sure how much detailed response you are looking for, so I did not reserve your question, but I hope this will help you.

• @Kav10, yes, exactly! Moderated mediation is what I figured as well but wasn't too sure about how to compare the measures. Might it also make sense to run an SEM with the moderator as a latent construct comprised of all items of each measure and see which items/measure performs best? I like the comparing group suggestion though--that is one that hasn't been suggested and I'll look more into.

• Running an SEM with the moderator as a latent variable ... works too but the use of statistical models also depends on the actual research question you are trying to answer. I would say, try my idea first and then construct the SEM. Let me know if my ideas were helpful.

• Will do. Is there a way you can still collect the bounty for this question? I'm open to other ideas that users might have but your response was very helpful.

• Yes, you can buy me coffees, each coffee is worth $4. Click on my Username and it will give you the option. I am glad it was helpful. I hope it works too. • Thanks @Kav10 for being patient with the delay. I just tipped. Thanks for your help, will keep you posted (still collecting data, but should be complete within the next few days). • Thanks for the tip. Keep me posted. Join Matchmatician's Affiliate Marketing Program to earn up to 50% commission on every question your affiliated users ask or answer. • unanswered • 189 views •$20.00