Contemporary advances and classic advice for analyzing mediating and moderating variables

Analysis of mediating and moderating variables is often fundamental tothe study of human development. Few developmental researchers, how-ever, take advantage of contemporary advances for the analysis of mediatingvariables and classic advice for the analysis of moderating variables, both ofwhich have lately become more user-friendlyFfor example, through web-based tools. In this chapter, we review statistical techniques for the study ofmediating and moderating variables with three goals in mind: (1) commu-nicating the current consensus on best statistical practices, (2) providing aprimer for those unfamiliar with these practices, and (3) directing readerstoward resources that simplify their application