Making sense of factor analysis : the use of factor analysis for instrument development in health care research

**Making Sense of Factor Analysis: The Use of Factor Analysis for Instrument Development in Health Care Research** presents a straightforward explanation of the complex statistical procedures involved in factor analysis. Authors Marjorie A. Pett, Nancy M. Lackey, and John J. Sullivan provide a step-by-step approach to analyzing data using statistical computer packages like SPSS and SAS. Emphasizing the interrelationship between factor analysis and test construction, the authors examine numerous practical and theoretical decisions that must be made to efficiently run and accurately interpret the outcomes of these sophisticated computer programs.

To meet the needs of clinicians and researchers for user-friendly assessments relating to such areas as genetic testing for cancer, Pett (U. of Utah Colleges of Nursing and Health) introduces factor analysis as a method to construct tests and check the reliability and validity of existing instruments, and computer statistical packages to facilitate such analyses. Appendices include the running example of the genetic testing concern scale (GTCS); SAS and SPSS commands, outputs, and issues related to GTCS; and standard statistical tables. Annotation ©2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

This book presents a straightforward explanation of the complex statistical procedures involved in factor analysis. The authors provide a step-by-step approach to analysing data using statistical computer packages