Writing the results of a path analysis in your thesis involves presenting the statistical findings in a clear and organized manner.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively write the results section of your path analysis:
1. Organize Your Results:Divide your results section into subsections that correspond to the different aspects of your path analysis, such as direct effects, indirect effects, total effects, mediation analysis, and moderation analysis.
2. Present Path Coefficients:For each path in your model, present the estimated path coefficients, standard errors, t-values, and p-values. If paths are statistically significant, indicate whether the effect is positive or negative.
Example:
The path coefficient from Variable A to Variable B was significant (β = 0.456, p < 0.001), indicating a positive direct effect of Variable A on Variable B.
3. Interpret Direct Effects:Discuss the interpretation of significant direct effects between variables. Explain the implications of these relationships in the context of your research questions and theoretical framework.
Example:
The direct effect of Variable C on Variable D was found to be significant (β = -0.320, p < 0.05). This suggests that an increase in Variable C is associated with a decrease in Variable D.
4. Present Indirect Effects:If you have identified mediation or indirect effects, report the indirect path coefficients, standard errors, and significance levels.
Example:
The mediation effect of Variable E between Variable A and Variable F was significant (indirect effect = 0.234, p < 0.01), indicating that Variable E partially mediates the relationship between Variable A and Variable F.
5. Discuss Mediation and Moderation:Provide a concise discussion of the mediation and moderation effects you found. Explain the mechanism through which mediation occurs or how moderation influences the relationships in your model.
6. Overall Model Fit:Include information about the overall fit of your model, such as chi-square value, degrees of freedom, Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA), and other relevant fit indices.
7. Interpretation in the Context of Hypotheses:Refer back to your research hypotheses and discuss whether the path analysis results support or reject each hypothesis. Explain how the findings align with your initial expectations.
8. Provide Graphs or Diagrams:Including visual representations of your path diagram or significant paths can help readers better understand the relationships in your model.
9. Avoid Repetition:While it's essential to provide sufficient detail, avoid redundant repetition of statistical values or interpretation. Summarize your main findings and refer readers to tables or figures for detailed results.
10. Use Clear and Concise Language:Write your results using clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and technical terms that might confuse readers who are not familiar with path analysis.
Remember that your results section should provide a clear and comprehensive overview of your path analysis findings while emphasizing their significance in relation to your research objectives.
Write the results according to the axes of the questionnaire or according to the hypotheses of the study, with the presentation of the statistical results of the most important indicators that were answered by the respondents, in addition to mentioning the correlation and differences and their degree if your hypotheses are statistical