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STAT201-Lecture 6-Confirmatory Factor Analysis

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25 views4 pages

STAT201-Lecture 6-Confirmatory Factor Analysis

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victorialoulendo
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA)

Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) is a statistical technique used to test whether the data fit a
hypothesized measurement model. It is widely used in social sciences, psychology, and other
fields to validate the structure of latent constructs and their relationship with observed variables.

1. Purpose of CFA
• Validate Measurement Models: Test how well observed variables represent latent
constructs.
• Hypothesis Testing: Confirm whether a predefined factor structure fits the data.
• Evaluate Construct Validity: Ensure constructs are measured accurately.

2. Key Concepts
• Latent Variables: Unobservable constructs measured indirectly through observed
variables (indicators).
• Observed Variables: Measured variables (e.g., survey items or test scores).
• Factor Loadings: The strength of the relationship between latent variables and observed
variables.
• Measurement Model: A predefined structure specifying the relationships between latent
variables and their indicators.

3. Steps in Conducting CFA


Step 1: Define the Measurement Model

Specify the hypothesized relationships between latent variables and observed variables. For
example:

• Latent Variable 1 (e.g., "Job Satisfaction") might be represented by indicators Q1, Q2,
and Q3.
• Latent Variable 2 (e.g., "Organizational Commitment") might be represented by
indicators Q4, Q5, and Q6.

Step 2: Collect Data

• Use a sample that is representative of the population.


• Ensure data quality and prepare it for analysis (e.g., handling missing values).

Step 3: Estimate the Model

• Use software like AMOS, LISREL, Mplus, or R (lavaan package).


• Specify the relationships and fit the model.

Step 4: Assess Model Fit

Evaluate how well the model fits the data using fit indices:

• Chi-Square Test (χ²): Assesses overall fit. A non-significant χ² indicates good fit (but
sensitive to sample size).
• Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA): Values < 0.05 indicate good
fit.
• Comparative Fit Index (CFI): Values > 0.90 (preferably > 0.95) indicate good fit.
• Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR): Values < 0.08 indicate good fit.

Step 5: Interpret Results

• Factor Loadings: Ensure they are statistically significant and > 0.5.
• Covariances: Check relationships between latent variables.
• Modification Indices: Identify areas for potential model improvement.

Step 6: Refine the Model (if necessary)

• Adjust the model based on theoretical justification.


• Add or remove paths as suggested by modification indices, but avoid overfitting.

4. Example of CFA
Suppose a researcher hypothesizes a two-factor model for employee engagement:

• Factor 1: Job Satisfaction (Indicators: Q1, Q2, Q3)


• Factor 2: Organizational Commitment (Indicators: Q4, Q5, Q6)

Hypothesized Measurement Model

Using software, the researcher evaluates:

• Factor loadings for each indicator (e.g., Q1 → Job Satisfaction).


• Fit indices to determine model adequacy.

Hypothetical Output

• Factor Loadings:
o Job Satisfaction: Q1 (0.75), Q2 (0.80), Q3 (0.70)
o Organizational Commitment: Q4 (0.85), Q5 (0.78), Q6 (0.72)
• Fit Indices:
o RMSEA = 0.04
o CFI = 0.96
o SRMR = 0.06

Conclusion: The model fits the data well.

5. Assumptions of CFA
• Normality: Data should approximate a normal distribution.
• Linearity: Relationships between observed variables and latent constructs should be
linear.
• Adequate Sample Size: Minimum of 5-10 cases per parameter.
• Independence: Observations should be independent.

6. Common Issues and Solutions


Issue 1: Poor Model Fit

• Solution: Review theoretical justification, examine modification indices, or refine the


model.

Issue 2: Low Factor Loadings

• Solution: Remove poorly performing items or adjust the model.

Issue 3: Multicollinearity

• Solution: Combine highly correlated latent variables or use exploratory factor analysis
(EFA).

7. Advantages and Disadvantages


Advantages

• Provides a rigorous test of hypothesized measurement models.


• Ensures construct validity and reliability.
• Facilitates theory testing and development.

Disadvantages

• Requires large sample sizes.


• Sensitive to violations of assumptions.
• Model refinement can lead to overfitting if not theoretically justified.

8. Reporting CFA Results


When reporting CFA results, include:

• Measurement Model: Describe the hypothesized structure.


• Fit Indices: Report key statistics (e.g., RMSEA, CFI, SRMR).
• Factor Loadings: Present in a table or figure.
• Modifications: Justify any changes to the model.
• Conclusion: Summarize findings and implications.

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