Issues related to the decision of the number of factors to retain in factor analyses are identified. Three widely used decision rules--the Kaiser-Guttman (eigenvalue greater than one), scree, and likelihood ratio tests--are investigated using simulated data. Recommendations for use are made. (Author/JKS)

The performance of four rules for determining the number of components (factors) to retain (Kaiser's eigenvalue greater than one, Cattell's scree, Bartlett's test, and Velicer's Map) was investigated across four systematically varied factors (sample size, number of variables, number of components, and component saturation). (Author/JKS)

Described is a method for obtaining an oblique simple structure in which primary axes are principal axes of homogeneous subsets of test variables. Examples of its application in R and Q-type analyses are presented. (Author)

This study examines the factor structure of response to the masculinity-femininity (MF) scale of the Comrey Personality Scales for males and females. The use of confirmatory factor analysis for testing hierarchical factor structures and factorial invariance is illustrated. The findings argue that MF is a multifaceted, hierarchical construct.…