Moderated regression analysis and Likert scales: Too coarse for comfort.
研究发现，使用连续响应量表替代离散的李克特量表，能使调节回归分析的效果量平均增加93%，表明粗粒度量表会因信息损失而降低检测真实交互效应的概率。
One of the most commonly accepted models of relationships among three variables in applied industrial and organizational psychology is the simple moderator effect. However, many authors have expressed concern over the general lack of empirical support for interaction effects reported in the literature. We demonstrate in the current sample that use of a continuous, dependent-response scale instead of a discrete, Likert-type scale, causes moderated regression analysis effect sizes to increase an average of 93%. We suggest that use of relatively coarse Likert scales to measure fine dependent responses causes information loss that, although varying widely across subjects, greatly reduces the probability of detecting true interaction effects. Specific recommendations for alternate research strategies are made.