Proposes a novel structural modeling approach based on latent growth curve model specifications for use with dyadic data. The approach allows researchers to test more sophisticated causal models, incorporate latent variables, and estimate more complex error structures than is currently possible using hierarchical linear modeling or multilevel…

Proposes an analog to the Scheffe test (H. Scheffe, 1953) to be applied to the exploratory model-modification scenario. The method is a sequential finite-intersection multiple-comparison procedure that controls the Type I error rate to a desired alpha level across all possible post hoc model modifications. (SLD)

Introduces an alternative structural equation modeling (SEM) specification search approach based on the Tabu search procedure. Using data with known structure, the procedure is illustrated, and its capabilities for specification searches in SEM are demonstrated. (Author/SLD)

Provides counterexamples where the covariance matrix provides crucial information about consequential model misspecifications and cautions researchers about overinterpreting the conclusion of D. Rogosa and J. Willett (1985) that the covariance matrix is a severe summary of longitudinal data that may discard crucial information about growth. (SLD)

Illustrates how structural equation modeling can be used to test the multidimensionality of a measure. Using data collected on a multidimensional measure, compares an oblique factor model with a higher order factor model, and shows how the oblique factor model fits the data better. (SLD)

How is affective change rated with positive adjectives such as good related to change rated with negative adjectives such as bad? Two nested perfect and imperfect forms of dynamic bipolarity are defined using latent change structural equation models based on tetrads of items. Perfect bipolarity means that latent change scores correlate -1.…

In previous research (Hu & Bentler, 1998, 1999), 2 conclusions were drawn: standardized root mean squared residual (SRMR) was the most sensitive to misspecified factor covariances, and a group of other fit indexes were most sensitive to misspecified factor loadings. Based on these findings, a 2-index strategy-that is, SRMR coupled with another…

Makes the case that the Raykov and Marcoulides Proof (RMP; T. Raykov and G. Marcoulides, 2001) generalizes to a broad class of structural equation (SE) models. Suggests a counterexample that accepts the statistical dimensions of the RMP while questioning the conclusion, highlighting the need for greater attention to the semantic dimension of SE…

Discusses issues in structural-equation-model selection that pertain to the general utility of the principle of parsimony. Provides an example using data generated by the relatively nonparsimonious simplex model and fitted rather well by a parsimonious growth-curve model belonging to a different class of models. (Author/SLD)

A rule is presented to identify the model in structural equation modeling. This rule includes the null B and recursive rules as extreme cases. Proof is given for the theorem. (SLD)

Studied the evidence for the practice of using parcels of item as manifest variables in structural equation modeling procedures. Findings suggest that the unconsidered use of parcels is never warranted, but the considered use of parcels cannot be dismissed out of hand. Describes a number of parceling techniques and their strengths and weaknesses.…

Presents a didactic collection of covariance and mean structure hypotheses that can be tested using a widely applicable and easy to use structural equation modeling approach. The method is useful when the goal is to examine the observed multivariable structure or test hypotheses regarding interrelationships in measures and when large samples are…

Within the latent growth curve model, time-invariant covariates are generally modeled on the subject level, thereby estimating the effect of the covariate on the latent growth parameters. Incorporating the time-invariant covariate in this manner may have some advantages regarding the interpretation of the effect but may also be incorrect in…

Discusses a method for obtaining point and interval estimates of reliability for composites of measures with a general structure. The approach is based on fitting a correspondingly constrained structural equation model and generalizes earlier covariance structure analysis methods for scale reliability estimation with congeneric tests. (SLD)

Introduces a new inferential test for acyclic structural equation models (SEM) without latent variables or correlated errors. The test is based on the independence relations predicted by the directed acyclic graph of the SEMs, as given by the concept of d-separation. A wide range of distributional assumptions and structural functions can be…