This article presents the use of an ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm for the development of short forms of scales. An example 22-item short form is developed for the Diabetes-39 scale, a quality-of-life scale for diabetes patients, using a sample of 265 diabetes patients. A simulation study comparing the performance of the ACO algorithm and…

Two popular models for performing multidimensional scaling, Tucker and Messick's points-of-view model, and Tucker's three mode model, are combined into a single analytic procedure, the 3M-POV model. The procedure is described and its strengths are discussed. Carroll and Chang's INDSCAL model is also mentioned. (JKS)

Hierarchical cluster analysis is shown to be an effective method for forming scales from sets of items. Comparisons with factor analytic techniques suggest that hierarchical analysis is superior in some respects for scale construction. (Author/JKS)

Common items, items which appear on several scales on psychological tests, are investigated in this study. It is concluded that the common item problem is not a serious one in personality measurement. (Author/JKS)

Objective criteria for evaluating the Eysenck Personality Inventory's internal structure are discussed. An approach based on targeted rotations and the test's scoring key is proposed as a means of providing common criteria. Data from earlier structure and test results for 195 undergraduates support the utility of 3 criteria developed. (SLD)