1 Confirmatory factor analysis

Confirmatory factor analysis is a statistical procedure used to tests hypotheses regarding the commonality among variables and allows researchers to assess construct validity. The tests assumes that latent (unobserved) constructs influence participant responses, so researchers can analyze the relations within and among dimensions. Confirmatory factor analysis only produces a single solution, thus allowing researchers to assess the significance of all parameters estimated. Additionally, this procedure can include covariation among measurement errors. Alternative: Confirmatory factor analysis involves first postulating a measurement structure, then followed by the confirmation that this measurement fits the data collected afterwards. Confirmatory factor analysis can only produce a single solution.