An algorithm for obtaining initial values for the minimization process in covariance structure analysis is developed that is more generally applicable for computing parameters connected to latent variables than the currently existing ones. The algorithm is formulated in terms of the RAM model but can be extended. (SLD)

Presents a method for estimating the random coefficients model using covariance structure modeling and allowing one to estimate both fixed and random effects. The method is applied to real and simulated data, including marriage data from J. Belsky and M. Rovine (1990). (SLD)

Latent class analysis is formulated as a problem of estimating parameters in a finite mixture distribution. The EM algorithm is used to find the maximum likelihood estimates, and the case of categorical variables with more than two categories is considered. (Author)

A new version of the standardized estimated parameter change that is invariant to the original metrics of the measured and latent variables is suggested for use in model modification. A multivariate estimated parameter change for a set of fixed parameters to be freed simultaneously is also introduced. (SLD)

Describes four approaches to factor analysis of ordinal variables that take proper account of ordinality and compared three of these approaches with respect to parameter estimates and fit using generated data and an empirical data set. Focuses on how to test the model and how to measure model fit. (SLD)

This article presents a straightforward classification system that is a necessary and sufficient condition for identification of the structural component of structural equation models of the block-recursive type with no more than two equations per block. Limitations of other identification techniques are discussed. (SLD)

Methods for studying relationships between patterns of change on different variables are considered, showing how the multilevel modeling framework, often used to study univariate change, can be extended to the multivariate case to yield estimates of covariances of parameters representing aspects of change for different variables. (SLD)

Computational formulas are developed for recovering measures of strength of association from approximate "F" tests and chi-square tests associated with four multivariate test statistics. The four statistics include Wilke's Lambda; Pillai's Trace "V"; Hotelling's Trace "T"; and Roy's greatest characteristic root…

Supporting the use of separate analyses of measurement and structural portions of latent or mixed manifest and latent variable models, limited information (single equation) procedures are presented for estimating structural parameters. These procedures are recommended for testing specific causal hypotheses and locating specific structural model…

Conditions necessary and sufficient for the determination of LISREL model solutions are identified. The reasons for indeterminacy of LISREL solutions are discussed, and an index of determinacy is presented and related to the covariance matrix of latent variables. (SLD)

After reviewing the multiple fit indices in structural equation models, evidence on their behavior is presented through simulation studies in which sample size, estimation method, and model misspecification varied. Two sampling studies, with and without known populations, are presented, and implications for the use of fit indices are discussed.…

The source of an event-related brain potential (ERP) is estimated from multivariate measures of ERP on the head under several mathematical and physical constraints on the parameters of the source model. Statistical aspects of estimation are discussed, and new tests are proposed. (SLD)

Describes a method for automated parameter estimation and testing of fit of nonstandard models for mean vectors and covariance matrices, allowing for nonlinear equality and inequality constraints on model parameters. Users need only provide subroutines to evaluate mean vector and covariance matrix according to the model and constraint functions.…

Decomposable models, which allow for the interdependence of structure among observable variables, are described. Each model is fully characterized by a set of conditional interdependence restrictions and can be visualized with an undirected as well as a special type of directed graph. (Author/JKS)

The sampling variability and zeta-values of parameter estimates for misspecified structural equation models were examined. A Monte Carlo study was used. Results are discussed in terms of asymptotic theory and the implications for the practice of structural equation models. (SLD)