Hi, I'm a postgraduate student doing a research that aims to examine the model with multiple mediators and multiple independent variables.

I'm confused with the statement of hypotheses. The question is: if IV is not related with DV, can we still use the statement like: The variable(Mediator) mediates the effect of IV on DV? In this case, should we say that iV has indirect effect on DV through the variable(Mediator).

And another case is that IV is related with DV, so we can propose that the variable(Mediator) mediates the effect of IV on DV?

What's the exact relationship between indirect effect and mediating effect? Do we need to pay attention to the statement of hypothese considering these factors?

I read an ariticlc which is relevant to this topic:

Nimon, K. 2017. HRDQ Submissions of Quantitative Research Reports: Three Common Comments in Decision Letters and a Checklist. Human Resource Development Quarterly, 28(3), pp 281-298.

And it also mentioned that authors who report on cross-sectional data, the term mediation should not be used rather than using indrect effect (Nimon, 2017).

Thanks a lot in advance for your comments and sorry for my limited study and understanding in this area.