Second-Order Factor Analysis: Methods and Interpretation

This paper presents the methodology for performing and interpreting second-order factor analysis. Procedures for extracting and rotating solutions are presented. Critical issues of interpretation, such as interpreting second-order factors are discussed. Two methods for accomplishing this are explained, including multiplying the firstand second-order factor pattern matrices and the Schmid-Leiman (1957) orthogonalized solution. Methods and interpretation are discussed for both exploratory and confirmatory second-order models. Results of example heuristic analyses are presented to aid understanding of both approaches. An appendix presents the correlation matrix for selected ability tests. (Contains 9 tables and 19 references.) (Author/SLD) ******************************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ******************************************************************************** RUNNING HEAD: SECOND-ORDER