7, Multiple Regression and Significance

Standardized beta (β)

A regression coefficient showing how much the outcome changes in standard deviations when a predictor increases by one standard deviation, controlling for other predictors.

How beta compares with r

r measures the relationship between two variables; beta measures a predictor’s relationship with the outcome while controlling for other predictors.

Controlled for

Accounting for other variables statistically when examining a relationship.

Adjusting for

Using statistical methods to account for other variables that may influence a relationship.

Considering other variables

Including additional variables in an analysis to see whether a relationship remains after accounting for them.

How to determine whether b is significant

Check its p-value; if p < .05, the slope is typically considered statistically significant.

P-values

The probability of obtaining results at least as extreme as the observed results, assuming the null hypothesis is true.