Evaluating and Modifying Covariance Structure Models: A Review and Recommendation

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present a strategy for the evaluation and modification of covariance structure models. The approach makes use of recent developments in estimation under non-standard conditions and unified asymptotic theory related to hypothesis testing. Factors affecting the evaluation and modification of these models are reviewed in terms of nonnormality, missing data, specification error, and sensitivity to large sample size. Alternative model evaluation and specification error search strategies are also reviewed. The approach to covariance structure modeling advocated in this article utilizes the LISREL modification index for assessing statistical power, and the expected parameter change statistic for guiding specification error searches. It is argued that the common approach of utilizing alternative fit indices does not allow the investigator to rule out plausible explanations for model misfit. The approach advocated in this article allows one to determine the extent of sample size sensitivity and the effects of specification error by relying on existing statistical theory underlying covariance structure models.

A Review of Structural Equation Modeling Applications in Turkish Educational Science Literature, 2010-2015

“…After correcting the coding errors in data, it is important to handle missing values properly (Kaplan, 1990;Kline, 2005). There are several missing value analysis methods (e.g., pairwise deletion, listwise deletion or series mean).…”

Doing the Four-Step Right

“…On the other hand, multiple relaxations of parameter constraints at Step 1 that are guided primarily by fit indexes (e.g., modification indexes) are not recommended. A number of studies have shown that repeated respecifications of this sort will fail to lead to the "true" model in many cases, and that the chosen modifications can vary widely across samples (Kaplan, 1989(Kaplan, , 1990MacCallum, 1986;MacCallum, Roznowski, & Necrowitz, 1992). Our view is that if modifications to the Step-1 model are introduced in this manner, the resulting modified model should be regarded as an exploratory creation that will need confirmation in future samples.…”

Measurement and Statistical Models in the Study of Personality and Intelligence

“…Kaplan, 1990). Structural modeling allows statistical testing of the fit of hypothesized models against actual empirical data sets (Bentler, 1990;Connell, 1987;Tanaka, 1987).…”