ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the challenges of having a categorical independent variable that influences numerous dependent variables simultaneously in SEM. A discussion on binary independent variables is presented and how to run a SEM model with a categorical independent variable. Next, a discussion on how to analyze mediation with a categorical independent variable is presented. The chapter then discusses how to run an analysis when your independent variable is multicategorical or has more than two categories. Dummy coding the multicategorical variable is necessary to run the analysis, and a discussion is presented on the optimal way to recode the data. Mediation testing with multicategorical variables are then addressed. Lastly, the chapter presents a discussion on moderated mediation when a categorical independent variable is present.
