Confirmatory Factor Analysis : A Preface to LISREL

Demonstrates how to use confirmatory factor analysis--a model that allows researchers to specify the relationships among observed and latent variables on the basis of substantive considerations rather than mathematical convenience.

A statistical method that will appeal to two groups in particular - those who are currently using the more traditional technique of exploratory factor analysis and those who are interested in the analysis of covariance structures, commonly known as the LISREL model. The first group will find that this technique may be more appropriate to the analysis of their research problems while the second group will find that confirmatory factor analysis is a useful first step to understanding the LISREL model. This book, and its companion volume, Covariance Structure Models, are designed to be read consecutively. The proofs presented are simple, but the reader must feel comfortable with matrix algebra in order to understand the model.