Causal pathways when independent variables are co-related: New interpretational possibilities

Abstract

We propose a novel interpretation in classical path analysis, whereby the influence of k independent variables on a dependent variable can be analyzed. The approach should be useful to study a causal structure with the assumption that this structure is true for the situation investigated. We propose a new coefficient, Qp which provides a better interpretation of classical path analysis. We provide an example in which effects of certain soil properties on grain yield of winter rye (Secale cereale L.) were examined.