Coming soon · Book Profile
Factor Analysis Sem Joreskog
A collection of foundational papers by Karl Jöreskog and Dag Sörbom that establishes a general statistical framework (LISREL) for confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling, enabling researchers to specify, estimate, and test complex causal models involving latent variables and measurement error.
A profile of this book is on the way.
What it’s about
This book compiles the seminal articles by Karl Jöreskog and Dag Sörbom that revolutionized the analysis of nonexperimental data in the social sciences. It moves beyond traditional exploratory methods to a powerful confirmatory approach for causal modeling, known as the LISREL framework. Readers will learn how to specify, estimate, and test complex structural equation models that incorporate latent variables (unobserved constructs), measurement error, and reciprocal causation. The book provides the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications for a wide range of problems—from confirmatory factor analysis and the study of group differences to the analysis of longitudinal data—equipping researchers with the tools to build more precise, testable theories and gain a deeper understanding of the causal relationships embedded in their data.
The through-line
- Who it’s for
- A social or behavioral science researcher, student, or data analyst who uses quantitative methods and wants to move beyond simple descriptive statistics or traditional regression to test complex causal theories and better understand the relationships in their nonexperimental data.
- The problem
- The researcher's current statistical tools (like regression, ANOVA, or exploratory factor analysis) are inadequate for testing complex theories that involve unobservable constructs, measurement error, and reciprocal causation. They feel frustrated that their methods are a poor match for their rich theories, leading to biased estimates, ambiguous interpretations (e.g., factor rotation), and an inability to rigorously test their hypotheses, thus undermining their confidence in making causal claims from observational data.
- The plan
- Master the principles of confirmatory factor analysis to specify and test robust measurement models.
- Learn the general LISREL framework that integrates measurement models with a structural model of causal relationships among latent variables.
- Apply the framework to advanced applications, including the analysis of longitudinal data and the rigorous comparison of different groups.
- The payoff
- The reader can confidently specify, estimate, and test sophisticated causal models that were previously intractable. · Their research becomes more theoretically precise and empirically rigorous, leading to more impactful publications. · They can make stronger, more defensible causal claims and accurately estimate relationships between latent constructs, corrected for measurement error.
See our guide
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Additional reading
- The Organism · Kurt Goldstein
Maslow sources the term 'self-actualization' from Goldstein and builds upon his holistic view of the organism.
- Explorations in Personality · H. A. Murray, et al.
Cited as providing an 'excellent discussion' on the basic principle of centering motivation theory on goals rather than instigation or behavior.
- Social Interest · Alfred Adler
Maslow credits Adler and his followers for stressing the importance of the 'esteem needs,' which he felt were neglected by Freudian psychoanalysts.
- Wisdom of the Body · W. B. Cannon
Provides the foundational concept of 'homeostasis,' which Maslow uses as the starting point for his discussion of physiological needs.
- Multipliers · Liz Wiseman
Explores how leaders can either amplify ('multiply') or diminish ('diminish') the intelligence and capabilities of their teams, a key concept for creating a positive, low-anxiety environment.
- The Fearless Organization · Amy Edmondson
Provides the foundational research and practical steps for creating psychological safety, which the book identifies as crucial for reducing interpersonal anxiety and encouraging people to speak up.
- Mindset · Carol Dweck
Explains the difference between a 'growth mindset' and a 'fixed mindset,' which is presented as a key tool for helping employees manage perfectionism and see failures as learning opportunities.
- Crucial Conversations · Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al.
Recommended as a resource for employees to learn how to navigate difficult, high-stakes conversations, directly addressing the book's theme of moving from conflict avoidance to healthy debate.
- Better Allies · Karen Catlin
The author is quoted on specific, actionable steps for allyship, making her book a practical guide for implementing the principles in Chapter 7.
- Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People · Mahzarin R. Banaji and Anthony G. Greenwald
Explains the science of implicit bias, which is central to the book's argument that leaders need to be proactive allies because 'not being racist/sexist' isn't enough.