HOW TO INFER MATHEMATICAL SEQUENTIAL MEDIATION RELATIONSHIPS FROM NETWORK ANALYSIS

This paper explores the statistical inference of mathematical sequential mediation relationships through network analysis, utilizing JASP for network modeling and SPSS Process Macro (Model 6) for mediation analysis. Sequential mediation analysis is particularly useful when dealing with highly complex theoretical models or when no theoretical model exists, enabling exploratory or confirmatory studies of specific mediation relationships. Network analysis serves as a complementary tool to identify potential pathways and interrelations within variables before applying mediation models. The paper includes an applied example within a study that uses an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to identify factors promoting TAM adoption among preschool teachers. The methodological implications of combining sequential mediation and network analysis are discussed, offering significant contributions to the behavioral sciences.