Use of Exploratory Factor Analysis in Published Research

TLDR

Factor analysis is widely applied across psychological journals, yet its proper use requires careful researcher judgments that shape results and interpretations. The study examines how factor analysis is employed in recent research published in four psychological journals. The authors reviewed 60 studies, analyzing the decisions made during exploratory factor analyses and the information reported, and identified common errors in practice and reporting. They identified common errors in factor analytic practice and reporting and offered recommendations for future analytic decisions and reporting.

Abstract

Given the proliferation of factor analysis applications in the literature, the present article examines the use of factor analysis in current published research across four psychological journals. Notwithstanding ease of analysis due to computers, the appropriate use of factor analysis requires a series of thoughtful researcher judgments. These judgments directly affect results and interpretations. The authors examine across studies (a) the decisions made while conducting exploratory factor analyses (N = 60) and (b) the information reported from the analyses. In doing so, they present a review of the current status of factor analytic practice, including comment on common errors in use and reporting. Recommendations are proffered for future practice as regards analytic decisions and reporting in empirical research.