path analysis
noun1
Mathematics, Sciences, Statistics Empty gloss, No gloss (statistics)
- The authors take care not to exceed the limitations of their method. Because path analysis can be used only to test existing notions, not to propose new hypotheses, the researchers cannot investigate possible biological pathways to homosexuality. But they can — and do — rule out nearly all of what must be an exhaustive array of social and psychological influences.1982 February 6, Larry Goldsmith, “Science vs. Real Life”, in Gay Community News, volume 9, number 28, page 12: