Conceptual models for direct, mediated and moderated developmental effects.
I. Simple or direct effect model: single predictor (A) directly related to a single outcome (C) II. When the relationship between predictor (A) and outcome (C) is thought to be either buffered or intensified by another factor (C), then a suitable model is one that tests for moderation. III. A mediation model posits that the predictor (A) influences another variable (B) which, in turn, is more directly responsible for the outcome (C).