A mediating variable (or mediator) explains the process through which two variables are related, while a moderating variable (or moderator) affects the strength and direction of that relationship.

What is the role of mediating variable in research?

In communication research, a mediating variable is a variable that links the independent and the dependent variables, and whose existence explains the relationship between the other two variables. ... Without the mediator variable, the link between the independent and dependent variables would not exist.

How does a mediating variable work?

A mediator variable explains the how or why of an (observed) relationship between an independent variable and its dependent variable. In a mediation model, the independent variable cannot influence the dependent variable directly, and instead does so by means of a third variable, a 'middle-man'.