Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Problem-Solving Before Instruction PS-I: A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities
Published on: September 11, 2021
Rationale and Applicability of Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) in psychoeducational contexts
Cristiano M Assis Gomes1, Leandro S Almeida, José C Núñez
1Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais.
Background:
In last few years, the use of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) has become dominant in structural validation of psychological tests. However, the requirement of latent variables only loading on specific target items introduces some constraints on the solutions found, namely a factor solution that links some items only in one specific dimension. The most recent use of exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), which allows items to be predominantly related to a factor, with non-zero loadings on other factors, has been identified as the one that best respects the proper functioning of the assessed psychological attributes.
Method:
In this study we compared the two approaches to structural validity using the answers of a sample of 2,478 first-year higher education students to a multidimensional questionnaire of academic expectations.
Results:
The results show clear gains in information collected when combining CFA and ESEM.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, some implications are highlighted for research and practice of psychological assessment.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Structuralism
Titchener's approach to structuralism was unique. He...
Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
The Scientific Method
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Theory of Attribution II: Kelley's Covariation Theory

