Problems found in the application of structural equation modeling to the theory of reasoned action are explored, and an alternative model specification is proposed that improves the fit of the data while leaving intact the structural part of the model being tested. Problems and the proposed alternative are illustrated. (SLD)

A theoretical and philosophical revision of the concept of fit in structural equation modeling and its relation to a confirmation bias is developed. The neutral character of fit indexes regarding this issue is argued, concluding that protection against confirmation bias relies on model modification strategy and scientist behavior. (SLD)

A study of the effect of the number of item response categories on chi-square statistics for confirmatory factor analysis indicates that the chi-square statistic for evaluating a single-factor model is most inflated for two-category responses and becomes less inflated as the number of categories increases. (SLD)

The effects of levels of aggregation on measures of goodness of fit and higher order parameter estimates obtained from confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were investigated using three indexes of fit and data on the academic self-concept of 270 undergraduates. Implications of results for model complexity in CFA are discussed. (SLD)

Basic philosophical and statistical issues in structural equation modeling (SEM) are reviewed, including model conceptualization, identification, and parameter estimation and data-model-fit assessment and model modification. These issues should be addressed before the researcher uses any of the new generation of SEM software. (SLD)