Evidence-Based Management

Figure 5.1

A mediator, on the other hand, is a variable that specifies how or why a particular effect or relationship occurs. Thus, if you remove the effect of the mediator, the relationship between the predictor and the outcome will no longer exist. For example, as early as the 18th century it was found that eating vegetables prevents sailors from getting scurvy. It was, however, not until the early 20th century that scientists found the specific mediator: vegetables only prevent scurvy when they contain vitamin C. A similar example can be found in management. In general, feedback has a positive effect on a person’s performance. This effect, ...