ContributingFactor
A factor that contributes to a condition or outcome, with indication of its importance and whether it can be modified. Used for multi-factorial causation where multiple factors combine to produce results.
Properties
| Property | Expected Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| factorName | Text | Name of the factor |
| importance | Text | Major, Moderate, or Minor contribution |
| mechanism | Text | How this factor contributes to the outcome |
| modifiable | Boolean or Text | Whether the factor can be changed or addressed |
| interventions | Text | How to address or mitigate this factor |
Example
JSON-LD
{
"@context": "https://causalschema.org/context.jsonld",
"@type": "ContributingFactor",
"factorName": "Raised external ground level",
"importance": "Major",
"mechanism": "Ground above DPC level bypasses any damp proof barrier",
"modifiable": true,
"interventions": "Lower ground to 150mm below DPC level; improve drainage"
}Multiple Contributing Factors
JSON-LD
{
"@context": "https://causalschema.org/context.jsonld",
"@type": "CausalPathway",
"name": "Rising damp in Victorian property",
"acceleratingFactors": [
{
"@type": "ContributingFactor",
"factorName": "Raised external ground level",
"importance": "Major",
"modifiable": true,
"interventions": "Lower ground below DPC"
},
{
"@type": "ContributingFactor",
"factorName": "Impermeable external coatings",
"importance": "Moderate",
"mechanism": "Cement render traps moisture in wall",
"modifiable": true,
"interventions": "Remove cement render; apply lime-based finish"
},
{
"@type": "ContributingFactor",
"factorName": "Clay subsoil",
"importance": "Major",
"mechanism": "High moisture retention at foundation level",
"modifiable": false
}
]
}Usage Notes
When to Use ContributingFactor
- Multi-factorial causation — When multiple factors combine to cause an outcome
- Risk factor analysis — Documenting what increases likelihood of a problem
- Intervention planning — Identifying which factors can be addressed
- Accelerating/mitigating factors — Within a CausalPathway
Importance Levels
- Major — Primary driver; addressing this significantly reduces risk
- Moderate — Meaningful contribution; worth addressing if feasible
- Minor — Small contribution; may not justify intervention cost