Could you provide an example of this: Yes, there is a method. The dependent variable, even though it's derived from a Likert Scale, has the potential for treatment as continuous data. This comes from the nature of the Likert Scale itself, which is an ordinal scale. To do this, you need to put into action a statistical method called linear regression. This analysis comprises of several steps:
1. Preliminary analysis: Firstly, you need to perform an exploratory analysis to understand the data you are dealing with. It is not possible to put random variables in a model. The variables you include should have a good reason to be there as suggested by the theory you are testing.
2. Assumptions Checking: Before running linear regression, you need to check if your data meets all the underlying assumptions like linearity, independence, homoscedasticity and normality.
3. Running the model: Once all assumptions are met, run a linear regression model. This includes your three independent variables and the dependent variable. Be mindful of your reference categories when you are coding categorical variables.
4. Interpret the result: Finally, interpret the coefficients or estimates of the model. Remember, treating Likert scale data as continuous is controversial and attracts criticism. It's always important to make well-informed methodological choices that you can defend. Additionally, ensure that the way you treat your data helps to answer your research question accurately and reliably.