Statistical Methods for Validation of Assessment Scale Data in Counseling and Related Fields

“Dr. Dimitrov has constructed a masterpiece—a classic resource that should adorn the shelf of every counseling researcher and graduate student serious about the construction and validation of high quality research instruments. —Bradley T. Erford, PhD Loyola University Maryland Past President, American Counseling Association “This book offers a comprehensive treatment of the statistical models and methods needed to properly examine the psychometric properties of assessment scale data. It is certain to become a definitive reference for both novice and experienced researchers alike.” —George A. Marcoulides, PhD University of California, Riverside This instructive book presents statistical methods and procedures for the validation of assessment scale data used in counseling, psychology, education, and related fields. In Part I, measurement scales, reliability, and the unified construct-based model of validity are discussed, along with key steps in instrument development. Part II describes factor analyses in construct validation, including exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and models of multitrait-multimethod data analysis. Traditional and Rasch-based analyses of binary and rating scales are examined in Part III. Dr. Dimitrov offers students, researchers, and clinicians step-by-step guidance on contemporary methodological principles, statistical methods, and psychometric procedures that are useful in the development or validation of assessment scale data. Numerous examples, tables, and figures provided throughout the text illustrate the underlying principles of measurement in a clear and concise manner for practical application. *Requests for dgtl versions from ACA can be found on www.wiley.com. *To purchase print copies, please visit the ACA website here. *Reproduction requests for material from books published by ACA should be directed to publications@counseling.org

About the Author

Dimiter M. Dimitrov, PhD, is professor of educational measurement and statistics in the Graduate School of Education at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.