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- Publisher
- American Psychological Association
- Copyright
- Copyright © 1989 American Psychological Association
- ISSN
- 0022-3514
- eISSN
- 1939-1315
- DOI
- 10.1037/0022-3514.56.4.577
- Publisher site
- See Article on Publisher Site
Abstract
Two or more dimensions unintentionally varied simultaneously are said to be confounded, but several theories in personality intentionally combine 3 or more distinct qualities. Researchers using these theories sum the qualities before testing predictions. How wise is this practice? The practice appears to derive from 2 distinct lines of reasoning. One of them assumes that the component dimensions converge on a single underlying quality (latent variable) that each reflects imperfectly. The other assumes a synergy among dimensions. Issues arising from each line of reasoning are illustrated by examining self-monitoring, attributional style, and hardiness. Conclusions are that (a) information is lost whenever a latent variable theory is tested solely by a composite and (b) a synergistic theory can be tested only through a statistical interaction.
Journal
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology – American Psychological Association
Published: Apr 1, 1989