bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A More Rigorous QUASI-Experimental Alternative to the One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design
Authors: Johnson Craig W.
Published: March 2007

A simple quasi-experimental design is described which may have utility in a variety of applied and laboratory research settings where ordinarily the one-group pretest-posttest pre-experimental design might otherwise be the procedure of choice. The design achieves high levels of internal and external validity and produces independent control groups by independently randomly assigning subjects to measurement occasions. It has superior internal and external validity in comparison with the one-group pretest-posttest design, in particular, but also in comparison with a number of other designs. The design includes elements which help control the internal validity factors-history, maturation, testing, regression, selection and their interactions; and the external validity factors-interaction of testing and treatment, interaction of selection and treatment, reactive arrangements and multiple treatment interference. The design approaches the internal validity of true experimental designs while optimizing external validity. It is readily analyzable with ANOVA techniques. The design may be particularly appropriate for evaluations of ongoing instructional programs in the schools, or evaluations of programmatic interventions or therapies occuring on an ongoing basis.
Concurrent Validity of the American Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the Israeli Inter-University Psychometric Entrance Test (IUPET)
Authors: Nevo B. , Oren C.
Published: March 2007

Admissions test scores were available for a sample of 84 students who had taken both the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the Israeli Inter-University Psychometric Entrance Test (IUPET). Concurrent validity was supported by the high level of intercorrelations between the two tests, including a correlation of .85 between IUPET and SAT total scores. Transformation equations were presented to estimate performance on one test from knowledge of performance on the other test.
A Monte Carlo Study of the Sampling Distribution of the Congruence Coefficient
Authors: Broadbooks Wendy J. , Elmore Patricia B.
Published: March 2007

The effects of sample size, number of variables, and population value of the congruence coefficient on the sampling distribution of the congruence coefficient were examined. Sample data were generated on the basis of the common factor model, and principal axes factor analyses were performed. The results indicated that when the population congruence coefficient is zero, the sampling distribution of the congruence coefficient is relatively stable and is similar to the sampling distribution of the correlation coefficient. The congruence coefficient was found to be positively biased for values of psi from .10 to .40 and negatively biased for the following values of psi: .50, .60, .90, and .99. The amount of bias (a) depends on the sample size and the number of variables used and (b) tends to decrease as sample size increases.
The Reliability of a Promotional Job Knowledge Examination Scored by Numberof Items Right and by Four Confidence Weighting Procedures and its Corresponding Concurrent Validity Estimates Relative to Performance Criterion Ratings
Authors: Friedland David L. , Michael William B.
Published: March 2007

For a sample of 153 male police officers, five sets of scores on a multiple-choice job knowledge examination were derived from the use of one conventional scoring procedure representing the number of items correct and from four confidence weighting methods. These five sets of scores were correlated with ratings of supervisors on each of eight job performance dimensions and with standings on each of eight factor scales of a standardized personality inventory. Evidence concerning the realization of higher test reliabilities from use of confidence weighting procedures in relation to those obtained from the conventional scoring method was equivocal. Increments in validity coefficients obtained from the confidence weighting scoring methods were slight. None of the five sets of scores registered statistically significant correlations with any one of eight personality scales. It would appear that in the context of the particular public service job studied the employment of confidence weighting techniques in achievement test scoring would yield at best only small gains in either reliability or concurrent validity. The use of the fourth confidence weighting procedure that statistically controlled for variance in a job knowledge examination demonstrated not one statistically significant correlation with any one of the personality factor scales but afforded statistically significant validity coefficients with five of the eight criterion measures-a circumstance which suggests the possible presence of a unique construct deserving of further systematic research in a variety of employment settings.
Determining Optimal Test Lengths with a Fixed Total Testing Time
Authors: Hambleton Ronald K.
Published: March 2007

The problem of determining optimal test lengths with fixed total testing time has proven to be a difficult one for criterion-referenced test developers. A solution is offered in this paper in which test lengths are determined by considering the importance, reliability, and validity of scores measuring objectives in a criterion-referenced test with a constraint set on the total desired test length.
Some Changes in the Structure-of-Intellect Model
Authors: Guilford J. P.
Published: March 2007

This paper serves to update the structure-of-intellect (SOI) model. In addition to a previously indicated separation of the figural element of the content facet of the SOI model into visual and auditory components, the memory element within the operations facet has been differentiated into memory recording and memory retention. Research supporting these changes is cited. Thus the revised SOI model now contains five content properties termed visual, auditory, symbolic, semantic, and behavioral; six operations entitled cognition, memory recording, memory retention, divergent production, convergent production, and evaluation; and the same six products as formerly, named units, classes, relations, systems, transformations, and implications.
Evaluation and Validation of the Mikulecky Behavioral Reading Attitude Measure
Authors: Schaer Barbara B. , Ley Terry C. , Neal Kathy S. , Wright Jone P.
Published: March 2007

This study examined the Mikulecky Behavioral Reading Attitude Measure (MBRAM) to ascertain whether or not the scale measures Krathwohl's five stages of attitude internalization and is a Guttman type (true hierarchical) scale in addition to being unidimensional. The results of the analysis showed that the instrument has Guttman scale properties exceeding recommended indexes. Coefficients of reproducibility, scalability, internal reliability coefficients and classical factor analyses were used to explain internal properties and subscale deviations. Although internal analysis indicated that caution should be exercised in interpreting the lowest level subscale (Attending), the MBRAM was found to measure reading attitude in true hierarchical developmental stages. Thus the MBRAM was deemed to be a valuable instrument for assessing reading attitudes of secondary and post-secondary students.
The Concurrent and Predictive Validity of the Quarterly Profile Examination
Authors: Willoughby Lee , Arnold Louise , Calkins Virginia , Neaderhiser Mona
Published: March 2007

In this study two types of criterion-related validity of the Quarterly Profile Examination (QPE) were assessed. The QPE is a computer assisted test construction system designed for the longitudinal measure of the acquistion and retention of facts in the medical sciences. QPE scores from four graduating classes were utilized to determine the relationships among various measures of performance. Cumulative grade point average, examination scores from Part I and II of the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) series, and a clinical performance evaluation served as concurrent criterion measures. Clinical performance as measured by the Resident Evaluation Form and examination scores from Part III of the NBME series served as predictive criterion measures. The resulting significant correlations between the QPE total score and the concurrent and predictive criterion measures suggest that the QPE is a valid and accurate measure of overall performance during the course of medical school, as well as a useful predictor of performance beyond medical school.
Internal Construct Validity and Reliability of a Quality of School Life Instrument Across Nationality and School Level
Authors: Wilson Mark
Published: March 2007

A multi-scale quality of life instrument, initially designed for use in Australian high schools, was used to collect data on the quality of school life of students in Australian and Louisianian high schools and a Louisianian university. The internal construct validity and reliability of each of the six subscales across these three contexts was investigated using Confirmatory Factor Analysis procedures. The results indicate that all six of the subscales show internal construct validity and acceptable reliability across the three contexts, but that there is some variation in the reliability itself. The relevance of these findings to research making cross-cultural and cross-level comparisons of attitudes is discussed.
An Investigation of the Higher-Order Symbolic Factors of Cognition and Convergent Production within the Structure of Intellect Model
Authors: Bachelor Patricia A. , Bachelor Barry G.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the existence of higher-order factors within the cognition and convergent production operations and the products dimensions of the structure-of-intellect model (Guilford, 1967, 1977, 1980). From the original data presented by Guilford, Merrifield, Christensen, and Frick (1960) on a sample of 240 Aviation Officer Candidates and Naval Air Cadets, an intercorrelation matrix of the 24 tests designed to measure symbolic factors of cognition and convergent production was reanalyzed using the method of maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis via LISREL. Results indicated that for tests of symbolic content with varying products the distinction between higher-order cognition and convergent production factors was not compelling. In tests of symbolic cognition, models including the form of product afforded a superior fit over models without this inclusion. However, the higher intercorrelations among the product factors suggested that only two higher-order product factors are involved—a units factor and a non-units factor. Finally, strong evidence for a third-order symbolic factor was obtained.
Reliability and Validity of a Factor Analytically Derived Measure of Leadership Behavior and Characteristics
Authors: Morgan Ronald B.
Published: March 2007

Reliability and validity data are presented for 13 factor-analytically derived leadership assessment scales. Self-ratings were gathered from 385 managers and parallel form ratings were collected from four to six co-workers (subordinates, peers and superiors, n = 1,965). Factor analysis of 220 leader behavior items produced 13 leadership assessment scales: Coaching and Mentoring Others; Sensitivity to Others; Integrity in Dealing With Others; Participative Behaviors; Criticism of Others; Self-Serving Behavior; Charismatic Behavior; Incisiveness; Risk Taking; Hesitancy; Directness; Future Orientation; and Motivation. The 13 scales show high internal consistency; strong inter-rater (peer, subordinate, superior) reliability; and moderate convergence of self-ratings and aggregated ratings by others. In addition, the 13 scales prove useful in explaining subjective ratings of influence and leadership as well as self-reported salary and salary progression.
An Exact Probability Program for Comparing Ratings in Several Samples
Authors: Aiken Lewis R.
Published: March 2007

Difsim, a BASIC and FORTRAN program for computing and determining the statistical significance of difference and similarity indexes computed on several independent or dependent samples of ratings, is described. The procedures employed in the program are exact probability analogs of the randomized groups and repeated measures analyses of variance for small samples.
A Basic Program to Compute the Sensitivity, Specificity, and Predictive Values of Screening Tests
Authors: Green Herman G. , Zar Jerrold H.
Published: March 2007

A BASIC microcomputer program is presented, which calculates several indices of reliability of a screening test: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value.
The Construct Validity of a Revised Form of a Self-Concept Measure for Employees in a Work Setting
Authors: Crowder Betty , Michael William B.
Published: March 2007

The major purpose of this investigation was to obtain for a new sample of 200 employees in a electronics/computer firm evidence for the construct validity of a revised form of a self-concept measure for workers in an employment setting. Involving six-factor scales entitled Level of Aspiration, Anxiety, Job Interest and Satisfaction, Leadership and Initiative, Identification versus Alienation, and Job Stress, each consisting of 20 items, the Dimensions of Self-Concept, Form-W (DOSC-W) is an extension of a parallel standardized measure that has been employed in elementary and secondary schools as well as in colleges and universities. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of a correlation matrix of 24 subtests each of five items derived from the six-factor scales were completed. The major conclusion drawn was that irrespective of whether exploratory or confirmatory factor analyses involving either orthogonal or oblique solutions are considered, the construct validity of the DOSC-W in terms of the presence of six hypothesized dimensions received substantial support.
A Generalized Agreement Measure
Authors: Berry Kenneth J. , Mielke Paul W.
Published: March 2007

A subroutine is presented to calculate a generalized measure of agreement for multiple judges and multiple responses at any level of measurement, along with the associated probability value, under the null hypothesis.
An Investigation of Racial Bias in the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised
Authors: Halpin Gerald , Simpson Robert G. , Martin Sheila L.
Published: March 2007

Step-down hierarchical multiple regression procedures were employed to investigate whether or not the PPVT-R is racially biased in predicting the scores of white and black subjects on the WISC-R for 75 adolescent subjects. The multiple regression equation slopes for blacks and whites were not significantly different, but intercepts for blacks and whites were significantly different. The results indicate that the PPVT-R is valid for blacks and whites in predicting WISC-R scores.
Concurrent Validity Study of the Oasis Aptitude Survey
Authors: Parker Randall M. , Chan Fong , Carter H. Steven
Published: March 2007

The concurrent validity of the Occupational Aptitude Survey and Interest Schedule (OASIS) was investigated by correlating OASIS Aptitude Survey scores with General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) scores for a sample of 59 rehabilitation clients referred for psychological evaluation. Canonical correlation analysis revealed four significant canonical variates and canonical correlations of .90, .76, .61, and .57. Zero-order correlations between the OASIS aptitude subtests and similar GATB subtests ranged from .68-.84. These results suggest that the concurrent validities of the OASIS scores with the GATB are generally acceptably high.
The Usefulness of the "Fail-Safe" Statistic in Meta-Analysis
Authors: Carson Kenneth P. , Schriesheim Chester A. , Kinicki Angelo J.
Published: March 2007

Rosenthal (1979, 1984) proposed that a fail-safe N statistic be calculated for all meta-analytic studies to aid researchers in detecting instability in meta-analytic results. However, few meta-analysts seem to have calculated fail-safe N's, despite the ease of doing so. As research exploring the practical utility of this statistic is nonexistent, this study evaluated the utility of fail-safe N's by computing them for studies in three research domains in which discrepant conclusions were reached by initial meta-analyses (with limited samples) and by subsequent follow-ups (with more inclusive samples). The current results suggest that calculation of a fail-safe N may have led to more cautious and circumspect interpretations of previous meta-analytic results. Implications of these findings for future meta-analytic research are discussed
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator-Expanded Analysis Report
Authors: Johnson Donald A. , Saunders David R.
Published: March 2007

The MBTI-Expanded Analysis is a new personality test based upon the Myers Briggs Type Indicator Form J, which provides 5 subscale scores for each of the four bipolar indices (E/I, S/N, T/F, and J/P) of the MBTI. Confirmatory factor analysis using LISREL 7.13 was performed on test scores from 500 participants in organizational development and career development workshops. Results were cross-validated on an independent sample of 500 from the same subject pool. All 20 subscales had high factor loadings on their respective dimensions, ranging from .44 to .81. Consistent with previous findings, the correlation between the S/N and J/P factors was found to be moderately high, with an estimated true correlation of .59. The E/I and S/N factors were also found to be significantly correlated, with an estimated true correlation of -.36. However, this result could be an artifact of the subject pool used for the analysis. In general, factor loadings were all sufficiently strong to regard all four factors as distinct, well-defined constructs. Although five of the subscales, Gregarious-Intimate, Auditory-Visual, Questioning-Accommodating, Systematic-Casual, and Methodical-Emergent, were shared indicators of other dimensions, all subscales were defined principally by the factor for which they had been constructed.
Another Look at the Reliability of a Profile
Authors: Rae Gordon
Published: March 2007

This paper provides a brief overview of the Conger-Lipshitz approach to estimating the reliability of a profile or test battery. In the special case where the profile components are uncorrelated their `canonical reliability' index reduces to Yarnold's index of reliability. A computational example shows how canonical reliability can be readily obtained using existing statistical software packages. A significance test is proposed.
Psychometric Properties of the American-International Relations Scale
Authors: Sodowsky Gargi Roysircar , Plake Barbara S.
Published: March 2007

A multidimensional instrument, the American-International Relations Scale, purports to measure the acculturation of international students, scholars, and academicians to the white-dominant society. Data from 606 respondents, making a return rate of 67%, were collected. Factor analysis of completed 34-item questionnaires (N - 481), using varimax rotation, yielded three interpretable factors, tentatively labeled (a) Perceived Prejudice, (b) Acculturation, and (c) Language Usage. Factor loadings of items ranged between .33 and .89 on one of the respective factors, with no item loading saliently on two or more factors. Full scale and subscale internal-consistency reliabilities (alphas) were .89, .88, .79, and .82, respectively.
Isolating Gender Differences in Test Anxiety: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Test Anxiety Inventory
Authors: Everson Howard T. , Millsap Roger E. , Rodriguez Caroline M.
Published: March 2007

Using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with nonzero latent means, the factor structure of the Test Anxiety (Attitude) Inventory (TAI) across genders was investigated. Two underlying factors, worry and emotionality, have been identified in previous research efforts. A total of 501 college freshmen (219 men and 282 women) from a large urban university participated in the current study. Results support the invariance of the traditional two-factor structure for both males and females. Gender differences, however, were found in the unique factor variances, the factor covariance matrices, and in the latent means corresponding to the worry and emotionality factors. Implications for assessment and research using the TAI are discussed.
Selecting the Number of Observations in Multivariate Measurement Studies Under Budget Constraints
Authors: Marcoulides George A. , Goldstein Zvi
Published: March 2007

When limited resources are available, determining the optimal number of observations to use in multivariate measurement design is not a simple task. This paper presents a method for determining the optimal number of conditions to use in measurement designs when resource constraints are imposed. The method is illustrated using a multivariate two-facet design, and extensions to other designs are discussed.
Multitrait-Multimethod Validation of the Satisfaction with My Supervisor Scale
Authors: Vandenberg Robert J. , Scarpello Vida
Published: March 2007

Using hierarchical confirmatory factor analysis to analyze multi-trait-multimethod data, the validity of the Satisfaction With My Supervisor Scale (SWMSS) was evaluated by comparing the SWMSS to commitments to the organization, department, and occupation. The SWMSS exhibited a strong convergent validity coefficient, and this coefficient was significantly greater than the discriminant validity coefficients representing its relations to the three forms of commitment.
The Measurement Integrity of Data Collected Using the Child Abuse Potential Inventory
Authors: Burrell Brenda , Thompson Bruce , Sexton David
Published: March 2007

The present study investigated the reliability and validity of scores from the Child Abuse Potential (CAP) Inventory. Subjects were 113 mothers, including 53 (46.9%) mothers of young children with handicaps and 60 (53.1%) mothers of young children without identified handicaps. Analyses of CAP validity scales suggested that the Random Response subscale could be improved by omitting selected items. Although total CAP scores had an impressive alpha coefficient (.91), consistent with those reported in previous research, some short subscales had unacceptable coefficients. The factor structure underlying responses was interpretable, but different in some respects from results reported in previous studies.
Program Page: Using Spss-X to Generate the L Statistic for the Page Test of Ordered Alternatives
Authors: Pascale Pietro J.
Published: March 2007

This paper describes a computer program which is a nonparametric test for ordered hypotheses with ranked or ordinal data. The RANK and FLIP commands of the SPSS-X package are used to generate the L statistic.
The Development and Validation of an Arabic Version of an Academic Self-Concept Scale
Authors: Al-Samarrai Najib , Michael William B. , Hocevar Dennis
Published: March 2007

For a sample of 175 Arabic students attending three universities in the United States (one in Los Angeles and two in Colorado), the psychometric results arising from the development and validation of an Arabic version of an existing college level form of a standardized academic self-concept scale are presented. Both exploratory orthogonal and oblique factor analyses lent support to three of the original five hypothesized constructs underlying three factor subscales and afforded evidence in terms of loadings on a fourth factor of the fusion of two remaining hypothesized constructs. Confirmatory maximum likelihood factor analyses indicated that among many alternative first-order and higher-order factor models the one for which five oblique first-order factors were hypothesized yielded overall indexes revealing the closest degree of fit. It was concluded that the Arabic version demonstrated what could be considered satisfactory levels of reliability and homogeneity for all five factor subscales as well as substantial support for the validity of three of its hypothesized constructs.
Dimensionality and Construct Validity of the Perceptions of Organizational Politics Scale (Pops)
Authors: Nye Lendell G. , Witt L. Alan
Published: March 2007

The present study examined the dimensionality and construct validity of the Perceptions of Organizational Politics Scale (POPS) which is comprised of three subscales: (1) General Political Behavior, (2) Going Along to Get Ahead, and (3) Pay and Promotion. Results of analyses conducted on data collected from 1,297 civilian government employees were inconsistent with a multidimensional factor structure of the POPS. Principal components and confirmatory factor analyses failed to confirm the Kacmar and Ferris 3-factor solution. Rather, the results indicated that the POPS was unidimensional. POPS scores were strongly and inversely related to scores on the Survey of Perceived Organizational Support (SPOS). POPS and SPOS scores were not differentially correlated with other job attitude measures.
A Validation of the Goldsmith and Hofacker Innovativeness Scale
Authors: Flynn Leisa Reinecke , Goldsmith Ronald E.
Published: March 2007

This paper reports a study validating a new self-report scale used to measure innovativeness or the tendency to adopt an innovation soon after it appears in a specific domain. Data obtained from 247 undergraduate business students showed that the 6-item scale was unidimensional and free from acquiescent responding. Rock music innovativeness was positively associated with opinion leadership for, involvement with, and both perceived and real knowledge of rock music. Innovativeness was also positively associated with the following: rock music magazine readership, time spent shopping for rock records, money spent for rock records, and time spent listening to rock music. These findings demonstrate both nomo-logical and criterion-related validity of the new scale.
A Comparison of the Power of Rasch Total and Between-Item Fit Statistics to Detect Measurement Disturbances
Authors: Smith Richard M.
Published: March 2007

This study investigates the properties of the total and between fit statistics commonly used in Rasch model calibration and analysis programs to assess the fit of items to various Rasch models. There are two aspects of the study: an examination of the distributional properties of the item between fit statistics when the data fit the dichotomous model and a comparison of the power of the item between and total fit statistics to detect various types of simulated measurement disturbances in dichotomous data. The results indicate that the distributional properties of the between fit statistic are approximate unit normals and stable over a wide variety of testing conditions. In the presence of measurement disturbances, the between fit statistic appears to be more sensitive to systematic measurement disturbances and the total fit statistic is more sensitive to random measurement disturbances.
MH: A Fortran 77 Program to Compute the Mantel-Haenszel Statistic for Detecting Differential Item Functioning
Authors: Rogers H. Jane , Hambleton Ronald K.
Published: March 2007

This software program computes the Mantel-Haenszel statistic that is used for detecting differential item functioning (DIF). The main features of the program are (a) the capability of using total test score or a "purified" test score as the internal criterion for matching examinees, (b) using an external criterion for matching examinees if one is available, (c) complete descriptive statistics on the test data, (d) complete reference and focal group performance data for items flagged as DIF, (e) additional DIF statistics, and(f) availability of mainframe and PC versions. The program can currently handle up to 100 items. There is no limit on the number of examinees per group.
Measuring the Dimensions of Effective Fathering
Authors: Roid Gale H. , Canfield Ken R.
Published: March 2007

Data were collected on a general sample of 1,650 fathers and a group of 42 effective fathers. Items that differentiated between the general sample and the effective-fathers group were subjected to factor analysis and other psychometric studies resulting in the development of seven internally consistent scales measuring dimensions such as commitment, consistency, and active listening. Significant differences between the general and effective-father samples were found. Analyses showed that only 4% to 8% of variance in the scores of fathers were predicted by background variables such as income or educational levels.
Applicability of the Learning Style Inventory in an Asian Context and its Predictive Value
Authors: Yuen Chi-Ching , Lee Seok Noi
Published: March 2007

Although most of the validation studies on Kolb's revised Learning Style Inventory (LSI) focused on the internal consistency and construct validity of the scales, the present study extended the validation effort by (a) using the LSI to confirm predicted learning abilities and (b) testing Kolb's hypothesis on the relationship between learning styles and educational backgrounds. Based on a review of the local education system and culture, it was hypothesized that Singaporean students would score high in abstract conceptualization ability and low in concrete-experience ability. This was confirmed by the findings that also supported Kolb's hypothesis that the learning styles are associated with different educational backgrounds. The study involved 1,032 final-year students from six faculties in a local university.
The Relationship between Canonical Correlation Analysis and Multivariate Multiple Regression
Authors: Lutz J. Gary , Eckert Tanya L.
Published: March 2007

The similarities between multivariate multiple regression and canonical correlation analysis have been inconsistently acknowledged in the literature. The present article shows that, although the stated objectives of these two analyses seem different, aspects of the analyses themselves are mathematically equivalent. A multivariate multiple regression analysis that incorporates discriminant analysis as part of its post hoc investigation will produce identically the same results as a canonical correlation analysis in terms of omnibus significance testing, variable weighting schemes, and dimension reduction analysis. A numerical example is provided.
Hierarchical Clustering Algorithms with Influence Detection
Authors: Cheng Richard , Milligan Glenn W.
Published: March 2007

The computer program described in this study is based on the methodology developed by the authors to identify those individual data points that can affect the results of a cluster analysis. The computer program designed to compute the measure of internal influence is integrated with nine hierarchical clustering methods. Included among the methods is the first release of the Belbin, Faith, and Milligan 5-flexible clustering algorithm.
Effects of Informed Item Selection on Test Performance and Anxiety for Examinees Administered a Self-Adapted Test
Authors: Plake Barbara S. , Wise Steven L. , Roos Linda L.
Published: March 2007

In self-adapted testing (SAT), examinees select difficulty levels of items administered. This study investigated three variations of prior information provided when taking a SAT: (a) No Information: Examinees selected item difficulty levels without prior information; (b) View: Examinees inspected a typical item from each difficulty level prior to the SAT; (c) Route: Examinees answered a typical item from each difficulty level and were informed prior to the SAT of the level that best matched their performance. No significant difference in test performance or level of anxiety was found as a function of providing examinees more information.
Measuring Computer Anxiety in the Work Environment
Authors: Marcoulides George A. , Mayes Bronston T. , Wiseman Richard L.
Published: March 2007

Covariance modeling techniques were used to test the assumption of group invariance of a computer anxiety scale by comparing results from two potentially different populations: college students and members of a law enforcement agency. Results provide strong support for the hypothesis that the validity of the computer anxiety construct could be generalized to different groups.
Factorial Validity of Personality Structure in Medical School Applicants
Authors: Shen Haikang , Comrey Andrew L.
Published: March 2007

The Comrey Personality Scales (CPS) were administrated to 413 UCLA medical school applicants for the class of 1989. The 40 factored homogeneous item dimensions defining eight personality factors, two Validity scale scores, age, and sex were factor analyzed. It was found that all eight factors were identified, and the congruence coefficients indicated that the personality structure of the applicants is in substantial agreement with what has been found previously in four other groups. Construct validity substantiated by the analysis is evident. Significant differences in factor score means between medical school applicants and normative groups were found, however, for all personality factors, except for the Masculinity vs. Femininity scale in males.
Reliability and Factor Structure of the Chinese Version of the Depression Self-Rating Scale
Authors: Cheung Siu-Kau
Published: March 2007

The Chinese version of the Depression Self-Rating Scale (DSRS) developed by Birleson was administered to 3,786 Chinese early adolescents studying at Grades 5 to 8 in Hong Kong. The DSRS data were found to have adequate internal consistency and item-total correlations. Factor analysis of the scale revealed two components. The findings suggest that the Chinese version of the DSRS possesses acceptable psychometric properties and appears to be a brief and economical instrument to be used for the purposes of research and documenting change. However, the mean for the sample was found to be higher than those obtained in previous studies. Implications for future research are discussed.
Characterizing and Circumventing Simpson's Paradox for Ordered Bivariate Data
Authors: Yarnold Paul R.
Published: March 2007

This article addresses the characterization and circumvention of Simpson's paradox in designs involving two ordered variables and illustrates the recommended procedure using a two-sample application involving the estimation of correlation and a single subject application involving the estimation of lag(1) autocorrelation.
The Development and Validation of the Arts Self-Perception Inventory for Adults
Authors: Vispoel Walter P.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this investigation was to develop and validate an adult form of the Arts Self-Perception Inventory (ASPI), a multidimensional self-concept inventory designed to measure perceptions of skill in music, visual art, dance, and dramatic art. Data from two independent samples of college students (ns = 175 and 258) strongly supported the construct validity of the ASPI (adult form) by showing that its subscale reliabilities were uniformly high (ax > .95), that its hypothesized internal structure was clearly defined in both conventional and confirmatory factor analyses, that its factor structure was highly consistent across validation and cross-validation samples, and that its subscale scores formed logically consistent patterns of relationships with a wide variety of external criterion measures. Possible uses of the instrument are discussed.
A Psychometric Reexamination of Kolb'S Experiential Learning Cycle Construct: A Separation of Level, Style, and Process
Authors: De Ciantis Steven M. , Kirton M. J.
Published: March 2007

The study examined Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory through a psychometric analysis and revision of Honey and Mumford's Learning Style Questionnaire (LSQ) using a sample of 185 middle/senior managers in the UK and Eire. Kolb's theoretical two bipolar-dimension orthogonal structure emerges, although it is made up of pairs that are not Kolb's configurative opposites but ones suggested by other scholars. The authors' principal finding is that no single measure can bear the weight of all of Kolb's constructs. The revision of the LSQ supports two psychometrically sound, orthogonally related, bipolar-style dimensions. Indirectly, this construct can give rise to four descriptions, based on their quadrants, that Kolb usefully treats as types. Unrelated to any measure is a four-stage process that the authors define as an ideal dynamic schema.
Exact Probabilities for First-Order and Second-Order Interactions In 2 X 2 X 2 Contingency Tables
Authors: Mielke Paul W. , Berry Kenneth J.
Published: March 2007

A FORTRAN program to calculate exact probabilities for first- and second-order interactions in 2 x 2 x 2 contingency tables with fixed marginals is presented. Computational speed and accuracy are ensured with the use of an arbitrary constant for the initial table and recursively defined values for all subsequent tables.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of the Brown Locus of Control Scale
Authors: Brown Ric , Marcoulides George A.
Published: March 2007

Covariance modeling techniques were used to test the assumption of group invariance of the Brown Locus of Control Scale (BLOCS) by comparing results from two different populations; American and Kuwaiti adult women. Results provide support for the hypothesis that the validity of the locus of control construct could be generalized to different cultural groups with some caveats.
The Structure of Perceptions of Time
Authors: Mudrack Peter E.
Published: March 2007

Several promising survey instruments recently have emerged to assess time structuring and time management practices and behaviors. The present study evaluated the Time Structure Questionnaire (TSQ) of M. J. Bond and N. T. Feather and the Time Management Behavior Scale (TMBS) of T. H. Macan and colleagues by analyzing item content, subscale score reliabilities, and factor structures. A sample of 701 American working adults completed the 20-item TSQ (N= 453 for the 46-item TMBS). Results confirmed that four of five TSQ subscales should appear in their original formats and that truncated versions of the four TMBS subscales and of the remaining TSQ subscale should be adopted. The study affirmed the importance of examining TSQ and TMBS subscales rather than simply aggregate scores and of achieving uniformity in subscale composition in future research.
The Relationship between the Five-Factor Model of Personality and the California Psychological Inventory
Authors: Fleenor John W. , Eastman Lorrina
Published: March 2007

Previous research findings have indicated that the California Psychological Inventory (CPI) is empirically related to the five-factor ("big five") model of personality. The present study attempted to confirm previous findings by separately factor analyzing the CPI scores from two different samples of managers. The big five personality factors resulted from both factor analyses.
An SAS Program for Estimating a Mixture of Two Normal Regressions
Authors: Caudill Steven B. , Acharya Ram N.
Published: March 2007

This article presents an SAS program for estimating a mixture of two normal linear regression models. The program is an EM algorithm and is written in the IML language in SAS. The usefulness of the algorithm is demonstrated by using an education example.
Legacy of the Environmental Movement
Authors: Albrecht Stan L.
Published: March 2007

The study of a broad range of social movements has indicated the continued reoccurrence of a "life-cycle" phenomenon. The movement frequently evolves out of a feeling of frustration and discontent, grows rapidly to a point of institutionalization when its impact on the larger society is greatest, and then enters a period of decline. A review of the environmental social movement indicates that it may be following a similar path. The period of rapid growth and broad popular support has already passed. Nevertheless, it is argued that the movement's impact, and hence its legacy, is already a significant one. Changes in the areas of cultural values, individual life-styles, and legal and legislative actions are reviewed to demonstrate this point. It is also projected that significant changes will continue to occur, though with perhaps less fanfare than was true in the past.
Hazard Adjustment, Locus of Control, and Sensation Seeking
Authors: Schiff Myra
Published: March 2007

Interviews were carried out with 328 residents of London, Ontario, to test the hypothesis that LOC and sensation seekinig are related to the tendency to adopt adjustments to natural and nonnatural hazards. Although there was no support for the hypothesis, secondary analysis revealed certain consistent patterns for the adoption of adjustments to both natural and nonnatural hazards, including a significant positive relationship between past experience and the tendency to adopt adjustments. Possible explanations for the findings are offered, and some directions for future research are suggested.
Noise and Inattentiveness to Social Cues
Authors: Cohen Sheldon , Lezak Anne
Published: March 2007

Results from a variety of studies suggest that under conditions of arousal and/or information overload, attention is focused on task-relevant cues at the cost of those that are less relevant to task performance. The stimuli under consideration in these studies have been exclusively nonsocial. To examine the effects of environmental stress on the processing of task-irrelevant cues of a social nature, subjects performed a free recall task in which they were instructed to recall six nonsense syllables presented serially under either noise or quiet. In all conditions, slides of social situations, each depicting either calm or distressed person(s), were presented just to the right of the nonsense syllables. After simulus presentation half of the subjects were given the expected recall test for nonsense syllables. The remaining subjects were instead given a recognition memory test for the peripheral social cues. While noise did not affect memory for the task-relevant cues (nonsense syllables), task-irrelevant cues (social-cue slides), regardless of whether they depicted calm or distressed persons, were remembered less well under noise than under quiet.
Behavior Problem Indices
Authors: Loo Chalsa M.
Published: March 2007

The differential effects of spatial density on five year-old children who were divided into "low" and "high" on dimensions of hyperactivity-distractibility, anxiety, hostility-aggressiveness, behavior disturbance, and motor inhibition were examined. Sex differences in interaction with the above behavioral dimensions were also investigated. In general, normal children motorically adjusted to a high-density condition to a greater degree than children with behavior problems. Anxious and impulsive children were especially distressed by a high-density condition, compared to normals.
Water Resource Preservation
Authors: Pierce John C.
Published: March 2007

This study assesses the relationship of personal values to support for water resource preservation in a sample of residents of the state of Washington. The Rokeach value inventory is employed to measure personal values. Two values are hypothesized to be related to support for preservation: "a world of beauty" and "a comfortable life." The relationship of values to support for preservation was hypothesized to be greater among owners of waterfront property and among those who employ water resources for greater numbers of uses. The results are consistent with the hypotheses. The value "a world of beauty" is related to support for preservation among most control conditions. "A comfortable life" is related to support for preservation among waterfront property owners and high-level users of water. Two values not hypothesized also are related to support for preservation: "responsible" among the property owners; and "national security" among the nonowners and the medium-level users of water. Overall, personal values explain substantially greater proportions of the variance in support for preservation among the owners than among the non-owners, and among the high- and medium-level water users than among the low-level water users. The study concludes that personal values are related to support for water resource preservation, and that this reflects consistency in public attitudes and clarity in environmental politics.
Investigating Cognitive Representations of Spatial Relationships
Authors: Sherman Richard C. , Croxton Jack , Giovanatto Joseph
Published: March 2007

Samples of subjects from three different residential locations were asked to indicate their knowledge of the same environment by (a) estimating the distances between pairs of geographic locations and (b) arranging markers on a "map-board" to represent the locations and the distances between them. Comparisons of the results between methods revealed striking differences which lead to discrepant and even contradictory conclusions about the impact of residential location on cognitive representations of distance and of spatial relationships. On the basis of a logical analysis of task demands, it was tentatively concluded that the distance estimation procedure probably yields a more accurate portrayal of internal representations than does the mapping technique.
Dormitory Architecture Influences
Authors: Case F. Duncan
Published: March 2007

This article reports the findings of a two-part study on the influence of dormitory architecture on patterns of social relations among college undergraduates. The first part investigates how dormitory architecture affects patterns of freshman acquaintance. Traditional proximity-social relation theory is refined to enable directional predictability of acquaintance patterns through use of the concepts "shared required paths" and "domains of acquaintance." The second part studied whether these freshman acquaintances evolved into more meaningful relationships such as friendship and rooming groups over the remaining years of college life. Time is specifically evaluated as an intervening variable in persistence of social relationships.
The Perception of Interpersonal Behavior
Authors: Adamopoulos John
Published: March 2007

This study explores in detail the structure of group and individual conceptions of interpersonal interaction in various environmental settings. It is shown that the conceptualization of the environment is well structured and stable across individuals, and significantly affects expectations of interpersonal behavior.
Residents' Perceptions of Satisfaction and Safety
Authors: Weidemann Sue , Anderson James R. , Butterfield Dorothy I. , O'Donnell Patricia M.
Published: March 2007

This article reports on the use of the concepts of residential satisfaction and safety in the evaluation of a specific multifamily public housing site and illustrates the potential of these concepts for providing critical information for the future planning and design of that site. The evaluation was primarily based on structured self-reports from residents about perceptions of their housing environment and their expressed satisfaction with that housing. Issues such as privacy, appearance, management, maintenance, safety from crime, resident similarity, and economic value of the residence were among those examined. Two types of analyses are reported: principal component analyses of over 200 items from the questionnaire and multiple regression analyses to determine which principal component factors were predictive of residents' satisfaction and safety. The results of the regression analyses clearly show the interdependence between the physical environment and the residents and managers of that environment. This information resulted in the formulation of general objectives and specific recommendations for change.
Families in Apartment Buildings
Authors: van Vliet Willem
Published: March 2007

In this article, it is suggested that apartment dwellings may become a realistic housing choice for a growing number of American families. Some consequences of this possibility are explored. Specifically, results from previous research on the effects of apartment living on children are reviewed. Some problems limiting the reliability and validity of findings to date are identified, and a number of suggestions are made to overcome these difficulties.