Path Analysis: basic concepts and examples

Abstract

This methodological paper examines the conceptual and statistical basis of path analysis (PA), a multivariate method that allows the verification of causal models adjustment and the identification of direct and indirect contribution of independent variables that explain the variability of dependent variables. Furthermore, this article describes the main operations required for the development of PA using AMOS, one of the most popular software in our context. Moreover, this study examines some investigations in educational psychology that used PA with the objective to contrast explicative theoretical models about reading comprehension and writing abilities, two key academic skills. Finally, we discuss the most important advantages and limitations of PA.

Keywords

• Path Analysis
• AMOS
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing Ability