A reparameterization is formulated that yields estimates of scale-invariant parameters in recursive path models with latent variables, and (asymptotically) correct standard errors, without the use of constrained optimization. The method is based on the logical structure of the reticular action model. (Author)

The association between adaptive and maladaptive dimensions of perfectionism was examined in relation to self-esteem and depression. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to develop and assess the measurement model used. A mediation model was tested with structural equations. Two perfectionism factors were found and outcomes distinguished by path…

Illustrates an approach to modeling educational effectiveness in classrooms by combining multilevel analysis and structural equation modeling in a two-step process. Data from a longitudinal study of 4,558 students in 334 class groups show how progress can be accounted for by the grouping effects of students within classes and schools. (SLD)

Studied the small sample behavior of several test statistics based on the maximum-likelihood estimator but designed to perform better with nonnormal data. Monte Carlo results indicate the satisfactory performance of the "F" statistic recently proposed by K. Yuan and P. Bentler (1997). (SLD)

Discusses a procedure for testing the equivalence among different item response formats used in personality and attitude measurement. The procedure is based on the assumption that latent response variables underlie the observed item responses. It uses a nested series of confirmatory factor analysis models based on K. Joreskog's (1971) method for…

Used structural equation modeling to examine factor structure and predictive validity of the Disinhibition subscale of the Sensation Seeking Scales (DIS) with drinking in 1,217 undergraduates. A three-factor model provided the best fit; prediction of drinking varied with intrinsic levels of alcohol relatedness. The relationship between…

To study whether individual differences in general cognitive ability differ in males and females, full-scale IQ data from 426 child twin pairs were fitted to a structural equation model of sex limitation. Individual differences in general cognitive ability appear to be substantially due to common genetic influences in males and females. (SLD)

In this Monte Carlo study, the effects of four factors on structural equation modeling (SEM) fit indices and parameter estimates were investigated. The 14,400 samples generated were fitted to 3 SEM models with different degrees of model misspecification. Effects of data nonnormality, estimation method, and sample size are noted. (SLD)

Provides an overview of standard and modified normal theory and asymptotically distribution-free covariance and correlation structure analysis techniques and details Monte Carlo simulation results on Type I and Type II error control. Demonstrates through the simulation that robustness and nonrobustness of structure analysis techniques vary as a…

A longitudinal model of participation in adult education was tested with a national sample and assessed via structural-equation modeling. The supported model shows that participation is a social phenomenon embedded in adult development. Socioeconomic status and educational experience have significant effects; attitudes toward education are…

There are several studies showing that working memory and intelligence are strongly related. However, working memory tasks require simultaneous processing and storage, so the causes of their relationship with intelligence are currently a matter of discussion. The present study examined the simultaneous relationships among short-term memory (STM),…

This article reviews the problems associated with using item response theory (IRT)-based latent variable scores for analytical modeling, discusses the connection between IRT and structural equation modeling (SEM)-based latent regression modeling for discrete data, and compares regression parameter estimates obtained using predicted IRT scores and…

A positive coping style can be critical to successful rehabilitation of psychiatric consumers. Using structural equation modeling, this study examined the relationships among consumers' psychological characteristics, self-esteem, and behaviors, and the role of self-esteem in mediating the relationships between psychological characteristics and…

Despite many theorists' assertions and researchers' findings that eating disturbances have personal, sociocultural, and relational correlates, no model of eating disorder symptomatology incorporating all 3 of these domains has been proposed. The purpose of this study, then, was to examine empirically such a model. Personal, sociocultural, and…

The quality of the home environment is widely recognized as a strong contributor to young children's emergent literacy and social competence and to their subsequent educational success. The present study examined the relationships between family variables (socioeconomic status (SES), social risk factors, and home learning variables) and children's…