Factor Indeterminacy as Metrological Uncertainty: Implications for Advancing Psychological Measurement

Rigdon, Edward E.; Becker, Jan-Michael und Sarstedt, Marko (2019): Factor Indeterminacy as Metrological Uncertainty: Implications for Advancing Psychological Measurement. In: Multivariate Behavioral Research, Vol. 54, No. 3: pp. 429-443

Abstract

Researchers have long been aware of the mathematics of factor indeterminacy. Yet, while occasionally discussed, the phenomenon is mostly ignored. In metrology, the measurement discipline of the physical sciences, uncertainty – distinct from both random error (but encompassing it) and systematic error – is a crucial characteristic of any measurement. This research argues that factor indeterminacy is uncertainty. Factor indeterminacy fundamentally threatens the validity of psychometric measurement, because it blurs the linkage between a common factor and the conceptual variable that the factor represents. Acknowledging and quantifying factor indeterminacy is important for progress in reducing this component of uncertainty in measurement, and thus improving psychological measurement over time. Based on our elaborations, we offer a range of recommendations toward achieving this goal.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Keywords: Structural equation modeling, Factor indeterminancy, validity, measurement models
• Faculties: Munich School of Management > Institute for Marketing
• Subjects: 300 Social sciences > 330 Economics
• ISSN: 0027-3171
• Language: English