The reason a moderating effect is also called an interaction effect is because
A)the influence of the independent variable operates indirectly through the moderator.
B)the influence of the independent variable differs based on the value of the moderator.
C)the moderator actually influences the independent variable at certain values.
D)at some values of the moderator the dependent variable influences the independent variable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A moderating effect, or interaction effect, occurs when the relationship between the independent variable and dependent variable is different depending on the value of the moderator variable. In other words, the influence of the independent variable differs based on the value of the moderator, hence the term interaction effect. Option A is incorrect because the moderator only affects the relationship between the independent and dependent variables, not the independent variable itself. Option C is incorrect because the moderator does not influence the independent variable, it only affects its impact on the dependent variable. Option D is incorrect because the dependent variable cannot influence the independent variable.

The Reason a Moderating Effect Is Also Called an Interaction