Multidimensional scaling (MDS) and components solutions were compared using two balanced self-report item sets. Results suggest that when self-report items are balanced and negatively worded items are not reverse scored, MDS and components solutions can differ largely, due to a component associated with measures of acquiescence. (SLD)

Causes of differential item difficulty for blind students taking the braille edition of the Scholastic Aptitude Test's mathematical section were studied. Data for 261 blind students were compared with data for 8,015 non-handicapped students. Results show an association between selected item categories and differential item functioning. (TJH)

The structure of "teacher efficacy" was studied with a sample of 342 prospective and experienced teachers through an efficacy questionnaire. Factors correspond to an internal versus external distinction, similar to the locus-of-control measures of causal attribution. (SLD)

The development of the new fifth edition of the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF) is described. The factor structure of the new 16PF was explored with 4 samples ranging from 646 to 3,498 subjects. Results support the validity of the 16PF factor structure and its continuity with earlier versions. (SLD)

Home interviews conducted with 102 families of children with developmental delays assessed ecocultural family resources, values, goals, and proactive adaptive efforts. Factor analyses on the ecocultural measures revealed 12 salient factors. Some factors were unique and statistically independent of traditional home environment measures. Significant…

The construct validity of a supplemental scoring system for the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC) was evaluated with 146 referred school-age children (aged 6 to 12.5 years) and the K-ABC normative sample. Results support the construct validity of only part of the scoring model. (SLD)

Clarified efficacy of psychological treatments for insomnia through a meta-analysis of 66 outcome studies representing 139 treatment groups. Psychological treatments produced considerable enhancement of both sleep patterns and the subjective experience of sleep. Participants who were clinically referred and who did not regularly use sedatives…

Defines computer assisted language testing (CALT), discusses the various processes involved, outlines the advantages and disadvantages, and examines psychometric aspects of computer testing. A table of factors distinguishes between test content and the mechanics of test taking. These factors constitute a table for developing a CALT checklist. (24…

Responds to "The Bell Curve" by arguing that IQ is merely a statistical fiction, an artificial construct not corresponding to any real entity. Discusses the "seductive statistical trap of factor analysis" as it relates to IQ tests, multiple intelligences, content and bias of IQ tests, lack of validity of IQ tests for individual…

A new instrument, the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory for Children (SPAI-C), was developed. Results from 6 studies with nearly 600 children indicate that the SPAI-C is a reliable and valid measure for childhood social anxiety and fear. It may be useful for improving clinical assessment and documenting treatment outcomes. (SLD)

Three analysis procedures were used to study the dependability and validity of ESLPE, a criterion-referenced English-as-a-Second-Language placement test developed at the University of California at Los Angeles in 1989. Findings led to the suggestion that some students might have been differently placed if subtest scores were used for placement.(38…

Argues that Jensen's article contains an inaccurate and misleading account of Spearman's work and distorts the basic concepts of factor analysis. The target article has failed in all its main objectives; its major failing is a result of the irrelevance of factor analysis to the study of group differences. (SLD)

Restricted factor analysis shows that the multiple-choice and free-response sections of the Computer Science and Chemistry Advanced Placement examinations (College Board) measure the same proficiencies for the most part. There is a small degree of multidimensionality because of local dependence among free-response items. (SLD)

Scores on ability tests given to 1,274 students in grades 4-6 and 1,310 in grades 7-9 were simultaneously factor analyzed at class and individual levels. At the individual level, the general factor was most highly loaded on fluid abilities. Three common factors were established at the class level. (SLD)

A Monte Carlo investigation of simplex fitting as a method of determining the dimensionality of binary data matrices was conducted. Examination of the fit of correlation matrices with a known factor structure to correlation matrices that represent the perfect simplex shows that simplex fitting is a feasible approach under some circumstances. (SLD)