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The content and structure of schizotypy: a study using confirmatory factor analysis
1Dept. of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom. phv@venables.u-net.com
Schizophrenia Bulletin
|September 19, 2000
Summary
This study analyzed self-reported schizotypy, finding a three-factor model with positive, negative, and social impairment factors best fits the data. Disorganization loaded onto positive schizotypy, supporting established schizotypy research.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychopathology
Background:
- Schizotypy is a complex construct often measured using multidimensional scales.
- Understanding the underlying factor structure of schizotypy is crucial for accurate assessment and theoretical development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the subscale content and interrelationships within a multidimensional scale of self-reported schizotypy.
- To determine the optimal factor structure of schizotypy using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).
Main Methods:
- Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed to evaluate different models of schizotypy.
- The study assessed single-factor, two-factor, three-factor, and four-factor models against the collected data.
Main Results:
- Single-factor and four-factor models did not provide adequate data fits.
- Two-factor and three-factor models demonstrated very good fits.
- The three-factor solution, comprising positive schizotypy, negative schizotypy, and social impairment, emerged as the marginally best fit.
Conclusions:
- The findings support a three-factor structure for self-reported schizotypy, distinct from models including disorganization as a separate factor.
- The subscale measuring disorganization was found to load onto the positive schizotypy factor.
- This three-factor model aligns with and provides empirical support for theoretical frameworks proposed by Meehl, Strauss, and Lenzenweger.