MIMIC Models for Uniform and Nonuniform DIF as Moderated Mediation Models

In this article, the authors describe how multiple indicators multiple cause (MIMIC) models for studying uniform and nonuniform differential item functioning (DIF) can be conceptualized as mediation and moderated mediation models. Conceptualizing DIF within the context of a moderated mediation model helps to understand DIF as the effect of some variable on measurements that is not accounted for by the latent variable of interest. In addition, useful concepts and ideas from the mediation and moderation literature can be applied to DIF analysis: (a) improving the understanding of uniform and nonuniform DIF as direct effects and interactions, (b) understanding the implication of indirect effects in DIF analysis, (c) clarifying the interpretation of the "uniform DIF parameter" in the presence of nonuniform DIF, and (d) probing interactions and using the concept of "conditional effects" to better understand the patterns of DIF across the range of the latent variable.