Theory-Based Data Analysis for the Social Sciences

The advent of complex and powerful computer-generated statistical models has greatly eroded the former prominence of social theory in data analysis, replacing it with an emphasis on statistical technique. To correct this trend, Carol S Aneshensel presents a method for bringing data analysis and statistical technique into line with theory. She approaches this task by first providing an overview that explains the connection between data analysis, statistical technique and theory. This section includes a description of the elaboration model for analyzing the empirical association between two variables by adding a `third variable′ to the analysis.
The author then introduces a new concept into this model, the focal relationship. This concept is the one cause-and-effect type of relationship of primary significance that is indispensable to the entire theory. Building upon the focal relationship as the cornerstone for all subsequent analysis, two analytic strategies are developed to establish its internal validity:

- An exclusionary strategy to eliminate alternative explanations for the focal relationship using control and other independent variables to rule out spuriousness and redundancy, respectively; and,

- An inclusive strategy to demonstrate that the focal relationship fits within an interconnected set of relationships predicted by theory using antecedent, intervening and consequent variables.

Using real examples of social research, the author demonstrates the use of this approach for two common forms of analysis, multiple linear regression and logistic regression.

Whether learning data analysis for the first time or adding new techniques to your repertoire, this book provides an excellent basis for theory-based data analysis.

Contents: Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Part I. Conceptual Foundations of the Elaboration Model
Chapter 1. Introduction to Theory-Based Data Analysis
Chapter 2. The Logic of Theory-Based Data Analysis
Chapter 3. Relationships as Associations
Chapter 4. The Focal Relationship: Causal Inference
Part II. Regression with Simple Random Samples and Complex Samples
Chapter 5. The Elaboration Model With Multiple Linear Regression
Chapter 6. Regression With Survey Data From Complex Samples
Part III. The Elaboration Model With Multiple Linear Regression
Chapter 7. Ruling Out Alternative Explanations: Spuriousness and Control Variables
Chapter 8. Ruling Out Alternative Theoretical Explanations: Rival Independent Variables
Chapter 9. Elaborating the Focal Relationship: Mediation and Intervening Variables
Chapter 10. Elaborating the Focal Relationship: Antecedent and Consequent Variables
Chapter 11. Specifying Conditions of Influence: Moderating Variables
Part IV. The Elaboration Model With Logistic Regression
Chapter 12. The Elaboration Model With Logistic Regression
Part V. Conclusion
Chapter 13. Synthesis and Comments
Glossary
References
Abbreviations
Index