A brief primer on conducting regression-based causal mediation analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

We provide an overview of regression-based causal mediation analysis in the field of traumatic stress and guidance on how to conduct mediation analysis using our R package regmedint.

Method

We discuss the causal interpretations of the quantities that causal mediation analysis estimates, including total, direct, and indirect effects, especially when the interaction between exposure and mediator is permitted. We discuss the assumptions that must be fulfilled for mediation analyses to validly estimate these causal quantities, discuss suitable study designs for assessing mediation, and describe how causal mediation analysis differs from traditional methods of mediation. To illustrate how to conduct and interpret mediation analysis using our R package regmedin

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10368791 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature