How is the regression coefficient interpreted in multiple regression?
In this case the unstandardized multiple regression coefficient is interpreted as the predicted change in Y (i.e., the DV) given a one unit change in X (i.e., the IV) while controlling for the other independent variables included in the equation.
- The regression coefficient in multiple regression is called the partial regression coefficient because the effects of the other independent variables have been statistically removed or taken out (“partialled out”) of the relationship.
- If the standardized partial regression coefficient is being used, the coefficients can be compared for an indicator of the relative importance of the independent variables (i.e., the coefficient with the largest absolute value is the most important variable, the second is the second most important, and so on.)
