Theory-based Data Analysis for the Social Sciences

Abstract

Chapter 1: Introduction to Theory-Based Data Analysis The Connection Between Analysis, Theory and Statistics Elements of Theory-Based Analysis The Inherent Subjectivity of Analysis Looking Ahead Chapter 2: The Logic of Theory-Based Data Analysis Inductive and Deductive Processes Operationalization and The Assessment of Fit The Roundabout Route of Failing to Reject Summary Chapter 3: Associations and Relationships Association: The Basic Building Block Establishing Relatedness: The Third Association and Causality Summary Chapter 4: The Focal Relationship: Demonstrating Internal Validity Coincident Associations: The Exclusionary Third Causal Connections: The Inclusive Third An Example of Exclusionary and Inclusive Third Explaining Y Versus the Focal Relationship Summary Chapter 5: Ruling Out Alternative Explanations: Spuriousness and Control Variables Spuriousness: The Illusion of Relationship The Analysis of Simple Spuriousness Complex Sources of Spuriousness The Analysis of Complex Spuriousness Death Looms on the Horizon: An Example of Partial Spuriousness Summary Chapter 6: Ruling Out Alternative Theoretical Explanations: Additional Independent Variables Redundancy: Alternative Theories Analytic Models For Redundancy Control Versus Independent Variable Summary Chapter 7: Elaborating an Explanation: Antecedent, Intervening, and Consequent Variables Intervening Variables: The Causal Mechanism The Analysis of Intervening Variables Mediation Illustrated: Explaining the Intergenerational Transmission of Divorce Antecedent and Consequent Variables Antecedent and Consequent Variables Illustrated: Divorce and Intergenerational Family Relations Summary Chapter 8: Specifying Conditions of Influence: Effect Modification and Subgroup Variation Conditional Relationships Conditional Relationships as Interactions Subgroup Analysis of Conditional Relationships Subgroup Versus Interaction Analysis Considerations in the Selection of Moderating Variables Summary Chapter 9: Synthesis and Commentary A Recap of Theory-Based Data Analysis Informative Comparisons Imperfect Knowledge