Benchmark validation of statistical models: Application to mediation analysis of imagery and memory.

ABSTRACT: This article describes benchmark validation, an approach to validating a statistical model. According to benchmark validation, a valid model generates estimates and research conclusions consistent with a known substantive effect. Three types of benchmark validation-(a) benchmark value, (b) benchmark estimate, and (c) benchmark effect-are described and illustrated with examples. Benchmark validation methods are especially useful for statistical models with assumptions that are untestable or very difficult to test. Benchmark effect validation methods were applied to evaluate statistical mediation analysis in eight studies using the established effect that increasing mental imagery improves recall of words. Statistical mediation analysis led to conclusions about mediation that were consistent

SUBMITTER: MacKinnon DP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6163101 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature