It is shown that if a behavior domain can be described by the common factor model with a finite number of factors, the squared correlation between the sum of a selection of items and the domain total score is actually greater than coefficient alpha. (Author/JKS)

A Bayesian procedure is given for estimation in unrestricted common factor analysis. A choice of the form of the prior distribution is justified. The procedure achieves its objective of avoiding inadmissible estimates of unique variances, and is reasonably insensitive to certain variations in the shape of the prior distribution. (Author/BJG)

An expression is given for weighted least squares estimators of oblique common factors of factor analyses, constrained to have the same covariance matrix as the factors they estimate. A proof of the uniqueness of the solution is given. (Author/JKS)

Solutions for the indeterminate common factor of a group of variables satisfying the single common factor model are not unique. This paper examines a number of thereoms concerning that problem and draws conclusions from them for factor analysis in general. (Author/JKS)

Two major and two minor principles are shown to serve to generate a large number of multivariate models, including canonical analysis, factor analysis, and latent trait test theory. The statistical underpinnings of the theory are discussed. (Author/JKS)

There is a unity underlying the diversity of models for the analysis of multivariate data. Essentially, they constitute a family of models, most generally nonlinear, for structural/functional relations between variables drawn from a behavior domain. (Author)

This paper provides an up-to-date review of the relationship between item response theory (IRT) and (nonlinear) common factor theory and draws out of this relationship some implications for current and future research in IRT. Nonlinear common factor analysis yields a natural embodiment of the weak principle of local independence in appropriate…