Comments on the Reiss screen for maladaptive behaviour and its factor structure

Sturmey's factor analysis of the Reiss Screen for Maladaptive Behavior is based upon several significant errors, some of which are of general interest because misuse of factor analysis is common (Ford et al. 1986). In this commentary, the author discusses; the concept of factor robustness; appropriate samples for evaluating the factor structure of a dual diagnosis instrument, the differences between exploratory and confirmatory analyses; and how the Reiss Screen was intended to fulfill its purpose. In the Sturmey study, the Reiss Screen may have actually performed well under adverse conditions. The criteria for conducting valid factor analytic studies of dual diagnosis instruments are identified in order to encourage future research evaluating the Reiss Screen and other instruments.