A Multitrait-Multimethod Model with Minimal Assumptions

This article focuses on dimensions of national ethos among educated youths in Malaysia by developing a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) model. The main objective is to evaluate national ethos dimensions and develop a CFA model of the national ethos formation. These objectives are achieved by applying four main dimensions to confirm the formation of national ethos: values, feelings and spirit, beliefs and identity dimensions. The study was conducted using a quantitative approach through survey techniques involving 431 students of Universiti Putra Malaysia, comprising 241 Malay and 190 Chinese youth groups. The data analysis used the SEM-AMOS approach to develop a CFA model of the national ethos. The results confirm national ethos of educated youth is formed through the four main dimensions measured. The CFA model has achieved a good level of compatibility based on the set indicators (CMIN = 600.947, DF = 115, CMIN / DF = 5.226, p = 0.000, SRMR = 0.0937, RMSEA = 0.099, CFI = 0.927 and PNFI = 0.771). This study implies a CFA model as a new approach in national ethos formation among educated youths in Malaysia. A future evaluation of a non-educated youth group should also be implemented to assure that this model becomes a holistic model.

A practical illustration of multidimensional diagnostic skills profiling: Comparing results from confirmatory factor analysis and diagnostic classification models

This study addresses the manner in which trait and rater variance combine in multitrait-multirater (MTMR) performance appraisal data. The Confirmatory Factor Analytic (CFA) model assumes trait and rater variance combine additively, whereas the Composite Direct Product (CDP) model assumes a multiplicative relationship. Implications of these models are explicated for MTMR data, and empirical differences are examined using four data sets. Results indicated that the fit of the CDP model was superior to that of the CFA model in all four data sets. Discussion centered on strengths and weaknesses of the CDP and CFA models, assumptions regarding trait/rater relationships and conflict between conceptual simplicity and realistic representation of relationships. Guidelines for applying the CDP method were provided.

Due to the competitiveness of banking industry and increasing bargaining power of customers, evaluation of the banks’ performance is crucial to better serve the classified customers in a universal system .In this paper, with consideration of segmenting the customers into personal and business ones, methods such as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation model (SEM) have been used in selecting appropriate variables of the network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) model based on network slacks-based measure and consideration of the undesirable variables and shared resources. The SEM model has been used to establish a proper connection between the different dimension of the NDEA model and CFA model has been used to identify the importance of each dimension. Also, the proposed model has been used to measure the Operational and decomposed universal efficiency of one of the Iranian bank branches (Day Bank). The results show that the extracted model provides managers with a suitable perspective in adopting appropriate policies to promote their performance in the different sectors, including deposit attraction, financial serving personal and business banking customers, and profit generation, and also in comparing them in the different dimensions of the model.

There has recently been an increased emphasis on patient empowerment and collaboration within their healthcare. However, there is widely a lack of clarity to the concept of empowerment and existing measurement tools lack uniformity, covering diverse domains and related concepts. This study aims to conduct a psychometric evaluation of the Swedish version of the Empowerment Scale- Making Decisions, focusing on its structural validity and reliability in assessing patient empowerment. This includes a detailed examination of the factor structure across two different contexts, psychiatric care (n = 211) and primary care (n = 210). We will compare several confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models proposed in previous research to identify the best fit. If no models provide a good fit, we intend to suggest a new scale for further evaluation. The dimensionality of the scale was tested by comparing four CFA models, together with a one-factor solution, to identify the best fit for the two samples. Reliability measures were determined by coefficient Omega (ω) as well as Cronbach's alpha (α). There was limited support for the one-factor solution in both samples, challenging the scale's assumed unidimensionality (primary care sample: x2(350) = 1074, p <.001, CFI = 0.58, TLI = 0.54, RMSEA = 0.10 (90% CI: 0.09 - 0.11), SRMR = 0.11; psychiatric care sample: (x2(350) = 1307, p = < 0.001, CFI = 0.66, TLI = 0.63, RMSEA = 0.11 (90% CI:0.11;0.12), SRMR = 0.10). None of the previously suggested factor solutions demonstrated satisfactory fit. However, a three factor-solution entailed the less complexity and best model fit (primary care sample: (x2(270) = 503, p = < 0.001),CFI = 0.85, TLI = 0.84, RMSEA = 0.06 (90% CI 0.06;0.07), SRMR = 0.07; psychiatric care sample: (x2(270) = 622, p <.001), CFI = 0.87, TLI = 0.86, RMSEA = 0.08 (90% CI 0.07;0.09), SRMR = 0.07). Based on this, we continued with exploratory refinements of this solution and arrived at two adjusted three-factor models based on each sample. These two adjusted models displayed only slight differences, and in a last step we removed the items that differed between the samples to arrive at one solution appropriate for use in health care settings in general. As a result, an improved and shortened adaptation of the scale was put forward that included 18 items targeting the subscales Self-Esteem, Powerlessness and Activism. This solution remained relatively clear to the previously proposed solutions (primary care sample:(x2(131) = 240, p <.001), CFI = 0.91, TLI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.06 (90% CI 0.05;0.08), SRMR = 0.07; psychiatric care sample: (x2(131) = 379, p <.001), CFI = 0.88, TLI = 0.86, RMSEA = 0.09 (90% CI 0.08;0.10), SRMR = 0.07; combined sample: (x2(131) = 432, p <.001), CFI = 0.91, TLI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.07 (90% CI 0.07;0.08), SRMR = 0.06). The results reinforce the difficulties in measuring empowerment given the complexity of this concept. The improved and shortened adaptation of the scale could potentially be used within health care settings to measure empowerment, but further research is needed to conceptualize and measure empowerment in patients with mental health problems. Given scarce support for the scale's unidimensionallity, future research should explore using multiple instruments targeting different constructs to measure patient empowerment more comprehensively.

As the robust maximum likelihood χ2 goodness-of-fit test had been found to yield inflated type-I error rates for certain two-level confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models, a new correction for the test was implemented in Mplus version 8.7. In this simulation study, we inspected whether the corrected test statistics follow the expected χ2 distributions when applying more complex two-level models for multitrait-multimethod data with varying sample sizes and correlations within trait factors. Investigating rejection rates and probability-probability plots, we found that the new correction markedly and sufficiently reduced previously inflated rejection rates in conditions with within-trait correlations equal to 1, 100 between-level units, and 10 or 20 within-level units. In other conditions, rejection rates were hardly affected or not sufficiently reduced by the new correction. While in most conditions, 2 within-level units did not suffice, 5 within-level units and 250 between-level units were enough to yield correct rejection rates given within-trait correlations did not exceed 0.80. Correlations above 0.80 required larger sample sizes. In planning studies with multilevel CFA models, researchers should be aware that sample size requirements for likelihood-based model fit evaluations can depend on several different factors and might consider conducting Monte Carlo simulations tailored to their specific modeling conditions.

The purpose of this study was to validate an original and innovative survey focused on both teens' personal beliefs and how they perceived their peers' beliefs regarding relationship abuse with four research questions: What are the measured constructs in this survey? Is the hypothesized factor structure of the five types of relationship abuse confirmed? Does the validity of constructs vary among racial/ethnic groups and genders? Are there differences between teens' own beliefs on relationship abuse and their perceptions of peers' beliefs? To address these questions, two confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models were examined with 591 high school students' responses. The first CFA model was created based on the exploratory factor analysis results and the second CFA model was created based on the theoretically hypothesized model of five types of relationship abuse. The results indicate that the 5-factor, 11-item model based on the theoretical hypothesis is the best fit to the data. The multiple group model analysis demonstrated that the identified CFA measurement model was invariant across different gender and racial/ethnic groups. The validated instrument of Teen Beliefs on Relationship Abuse Measure is a reliable and valid way to measure both teens' personal beliefs and their perceptions of peers' beliefs on five types of relationship abuse including emotional, physical, sexual, stalking, and digital abuses. With the validated model, t-test results indicate that teens' own beliefs are significantly more positive than their perceptions of their peers' beliefs for all the five factors. The measure is useful for researchers, educators, and parents to measure and understand teen perceptions of themselves and their peers on different types of relationship abuses to better support them develop healthy, respectful, and nonviolent relationships.

<title>Abstract</title> Background Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is a critical outcome in end-stage kidney disease care. The Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQoL-36) is widely used but presents limitations in length and personalization, which may reduce its clinical utility. We evaluated the psychometric performance of a multidimensional Item Response Theory (IRT) model for KDQoL-36 and simulated a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) version in a large European dialysis cohort. Methods We included 8,325 KDQoL-36 responses from chronic dialysis patients in 170 NephroCare clinics across six countries. Psychometric properties were assessed using confirmatory factor analysis and bifactor IRT modeling. CAT simulations were conducted to evaluate reliability and burden reduction. Construct and criterion validity were assessed using hospitalization outcomes and known-group comparisons. Results Bifactor models demonstrated superior fit for both SF12 and disease-specific KDQoL-36 domains, with excellent reliability (ω &gt; 0.90). IRT-based scores showed high agreement with classical test theory (R²: 0.75–0.98) and differentiated patient groups by hospitalization risk. CAT simulations showed strong agreement with full-length scores (R²: 0.93–0.99), reduced item count by 22–36% and saved up to 10 workdays per survey cycle. CCAT administered 7.67 ± 2.58 items per patient in SF12 domain and 18.75 ± 4.09 for KDQoL-36 diseases specific domain while preserving measurement precision. Conclusion Multidimensional IRT modeling supports the KDQoL-36 as a reliable, valid measure of HRQoL in dialysis care. CAT implementation offers substantial efficiency gains with minimal loss of information, reducing patient and staff burden while enhancing integration of HRQoL into routine clinical practice.

Validation of the Malay version of the recovery-stress questionnaire for athletes: Application of confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling

Revised reinforcement sensitivity theory (r-RST) of personality is a major neuropsychological theory of motivation, emotion and personality. This paper presents the results of a study examining: (1) the factor structure of the Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory of Personality Questionnaire (RST-PQ) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM); and (2) the relationships of the r-RST constructs in the RST-PQ with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptom groups of inattention (IA) and hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI). A total of 572 (Sample 1) and 309 (Sample 2) adults completed the RST-PQ. Participants in Sample 2 also completed a questionnaire measuring ADHD symptoms. Results revealed more support for the ESEM model with six factors than the CFA model. For both the ESEM and CFA models, both IA and HI symptom groups were associated positively with the RST-PQ constructs of behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral approach system (BAS) Impulsivity, with IA also associated negatively with the BAS-Goal-Drive Persistence. The theoretical implications of these findings for understanding the factor structure of the RST-PQ, and for ADHD (IA and HI) in terms of r-RST, are discussed.

The aim of this study was to develop and psychometrically validate a self-report instrument to assess (1) competencies, (2) needs, and (3) satisfaction among youth transitioning from pediatric to adult rheumatology. The Transition-KompAZ was developed in several steps with conceptual and psychometric analyses. To test its psychometric properties, the instrument was administered to adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 16-25 years) with inflammatory rheumatic diseases before (group 1) or after (group 2) transfer to adult rheumatology. A 2-factor, higher-order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) model was applied to test the hypothesized factor structure. Internal consistency was estimated using the approach of Raykov with the factor loadings and error variances estimated in the CFA. Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used to assess construct validity. The Transition-KompAZ includes the following modules: (1) competencies in transition (knowledge, self-management), (2) needs (healthcare services, information), and (3) satisfaction (general, transitional care). A total of 173 AYAs (group 1: n = 86; group 2: n = 87) from 12 rheumatology sites completed the Transition-KompAZ. It showed good model fit (comparative fit index > 0.9; Tucker-Lewis index > 0.9; weighted root mean square residual < 0.9) with good internal consistency. The instrument demonstrated moderate-to-good construct validity and good test-retest reliability. The Transition-KompAZ appears to be a reliable tool for assessing important dimensions of transition. It may support a structured and individualized transition, as well as the evaluation of transition services. However, further studies are required to assess its predictive value in terms of transfer readiness and successful transition.

Background: This study investigated the psychometric properties of the 9-Item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9) and the 9-Item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire–Physician version (SDM-Q-Doc) using comprehensive and thorough psychometric methods in an oncology setting. Methods: Cancer survivors (n=1783; 928 [52.05%] males) and physicians (n=154; 121[78.58%] males) participated in this study. Each cancer survivor completed the SDM-Q-9. Physicians completed the SDM-Q-Doc for each of their cancer patient. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Rasch model were used to test the psychometric properties of SDM-Q-9 and SDM-Q-Doc. Results: SDM-Q-9 and SDM-Q-Doc demonstrated unidimensional structure in CFA and Rasch model. In addition, the measurement invariance was supported for both SDM-Q-9 and SDM-QDoc across sex using the multigroup CFA. Rash analysis indicates no differential item functioning(DIF)across sex for all the SDM-Q-9 and SDM-Q-Doc items. SDM-Q-9 and SDM-Q-Doc were moderately correlated (r=0.41; P<0.001). Conclusion: SDM-Q-9 and SDM-Q-Doc are valid instruments to assess shared decision making in the oncology setting.

Universalidad del constructo del Maslach Burnout Inventory en un contexto latinoamericano

Assessing fear and anxiety regarding COVID-19 viral infection is essential for investigating mental health during this epidemic. We have developed and validated a Japanese-language version of The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) based on a large, nationwide residential sample (n = 6,750) recruited through news and social media responding to an online version of the questionnaire. Data was collected from August 4–25, 2020. Results correlated with K6, GAD-7 and IES-R psychological scales, and T-tests and analysis of variance identified associated factors. All indices indicated the two-factor model emotional fear reactions and symptomatic expressions of fear a better fit for our data than a single-factor model in Confirmatory Factor Analysis (χ2 = 164.16, p<0.001, CFI 0.991, TLI = 0.985, RMSEA = 0.043). Socio-demographic factors identified as disaster vulnerabilities such as female sex, sexual minority, elderly, unemployment, and present psychiatric history associated with higher scores. However, respondent or family member experience of infection risk, or work/school interference from confinement, had greatest impact. Results suggest necessity of mental health support during this pandemic similar to other disasters.

In this paper, we have presented our proposal for reconceptualization and operationalization of Type C (cancer-prone) personality. Based on theoretical analyses, taking into account both the literature on Type C and models of personality structure, we have proposed a two-facet structure of Type C, comprising Submissiveness (the interpersonal aspect) and Restricted Affectivity (the intrapersonal aspect). The study devoted to the validation of the measure of Type C involved 232 participants aged 18–70 (M = 29.35, SD = 8.93; 54% male). We used (a) our proposed measure of Type C personality and (b) the Circumplex of Personality Metatraits Questionnaire (CPM-Q-SF; Strus and Cieciuch, 2017), assessing personality metatraits. The measure of Type C proved to have acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha was 0.85 for Submissiveness and 0.78 for Restricted Affectivity). The measurement model in confirmatory factor analysis with two latent variables proved to be well-fitted to the data. We have also confirmed the hypothesis concerning the location of the two facets of Type C personality close to each other in the theoretically predicted area between the Delta-Plus/Self-Restraint and Beta-Minus/Passiveness metatraits (in the Circumplex of Personality Metatraits). The clinical value of the theoretically refined Type C can be tested in the next step in research on patients with cancer.