Structural Equation Modeling With AMOS: Basic Concepts, Applications, and Programming, Third Edition(Multivariate Applications Series)

This bestselling text provides a practical guide to structural equation modeling (SEM) using the Amos Graphical approach. Using clear, everyday language, the text is ideal for those with little to no exposure to either SEM or Amos. The author reviews SEM applications based on actual data taken from her own research. Each chapter "walks" readers through the steps involved (specification, estimation, evaluation, and post hoc modification) in testing a variety of SEM models. Accompanying each application is: an explanation of the issues addressed and a schematic presentation of hypothesized model structure; Amos input and output with interpretations; use of the Amos toolbar icons and pull-down menus; and data upon which the model application was based, together with updated references pertinent to the SEM model tested. Thoroughly updated throughout, the new edition features: All new screen shots featuring Amos Version 23. Descriptions and illustrations of Amos’ new Tables View format which enables the specification of a structural model in spreadsheet form. Key concepts and/or techniques that introduce each chapter. Alternative approaches to model analyses when enabled by Amos thereby allowing users to determine the method best suited to their data. Provides analysis of the same model based on continuous and categorical data (Ch. 5) thereby enabling readers to observe two ways of specifying and testing the same model as well as compare results. All applications based on the Amos graphical mode interface accompanied by more "how to" coverage of graphical techniques unique to Amos. More explanation of key procedures and analyses that address questions posed by readers All application data files are available at www.routledge.com/9781138797031. The two introductory chapters in Section 1 review the fundamental concepts of SEM methodology and a general overview of the Amos program. Section 2 provides single-group analyses applications including two first-order confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) models, one second-order CFA model, and one full latent variable model. Section 3 presents multiple-group analyses applications with two rooted in the analysis of covariance structures and one in the analysis of mean and covariance structures. Two models that are increasingly popular with SEM practitioners, construct validity and testing change over time using the latent growth curve, are presented in Section 4. The book concludes with a review of the use of bootstrapping to address non-normal data and a review of missing (or incomplete) data in Section 5. An ideal supplement for graduate level courses in psychology, education, business, and social and health sciences that cover the fundamentals of SEM with a focus on Amos, this practical text continues to be a favorite of both researchers and practitioners. A prerequisite of basic statistics through regression analysis is recommended but no exposure to either SEM or Amos is required.

Table of Contents:
Section 1: Introduction 1. Structural Equation Modeling: The Basics 2. Using the Amos Program Section 2: Single-Group Analyses Confirmatory Factor Analytic Models 3.. Application 1: Testing the Factorial Validity of a Theoretical Construct (First-Order CFA Model) 4. Application 2: Testing the Factorial Validity of Scores from a Measurement Scale (First-Order CFA Model) 5. Application 3: Testing the Validity of Scores from a Measurement Scale (Second-Order CFA Model) Full Latent Variable Model 6. Application 5: Testing the Validity of a Causal Structure Section 3: Multiple-Group Analyses Confirmatory Factor Analytic Models 7. Application 5: Testing Factorial Invariance of Scales from a Measurement Scale (First-Order CFA Model) 8. Application 6: Testing Invariance of Latent Mean Structures (First-Order CFA Model) Full Latent Variable Model 9. Application 7: Testing Invariance of a Causal Structure Section 4: Other Important Applications 10. Application 8: Testing Evidence of Construct Validity: The Multitrait-Multimethod Model 11. Application 9: Testing Change Over Time: The Latent Growth Curve Model Section 5: Other Important Topics 12. Application 10: Use of Bootstrapping in Addressing Non-normal Data 13. Application 11: Addressing the Issues of Incomplete Data

About the Author :
Barbara M. Byrne is Professor Emeritus in the School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Canada.

Review :
"Having used Byrne's SEM texts for decades, this updated AMOS edition clearly continues her winning streak. With trademark accessibility of writing and helpful software illustrations, this remains an indispensable companion for any course using AMOS." - Gregory R. Hancock, University of Maryland, USA "Byrne's trademark clarity and practicality are on full display in this new edition of her bestselling book on using Amos for structural equation modeling. Unlike typical guides for SEM software, Byrne embeds her coverage in realistic and telling examples that take the reader beyond the simple how-tos to guidance on strategy and interpretation." - Rick H. Hoyle, Duke University, USA "When Barbara Byrne teaches, all analyses become simple. She is exceptionally skillful in teaching complex matters in an accessible way. With this book she confirms her international reputation. She will continue to show students and scholars how to conduct sophisticated analyses using AMOS." –Fons van de Vijvar, Tilburg University, Netherlands "Barbara M. Byrne’s book on how to use Amos for SEM analyses is a great resource for students and experienced researchers. Written in a clear, accessible way, it also teaches essential concepts, not just skills." - Rex Kline, Concordia University, Canada "Dr. Byrne writes at a perfect level which is friendly to the novice, but also makes it clear that this is an advanced technique that the reader will benefit from learning. ...The audiences that I think would be attracted to this book [are] faculty/researchers, graduate students and undergraduate students. ... Many of my past students have retained their edition of the text for future reference." – Brian Lawton, George Mason University, USA "It is the best book on the market for our course. ... I can use it not only as a textbook but also as a reference. ... It works well for the market ... across a range of disciplines in both the social and natural sciences. ...This book is really appropriate for postgraduate and research students. ...It is a starter book for SEM. Many people begin using AMOS and this is the perfect companion. ... I would recommend it to anyone looking to incorporate SEM into their research." – Rob Angell, Cardiff University, Wales "Dr. Byrne did an exceptional job in presenting the SEM terms and concepts in an understandable way, in adopting various examples from social science disciplines, and walking through readers with a variety of SEM applications using AMOS! ... [Market] Applied researchers who want to conduct SEM analyses using AMOS, no matter whether they have strong background in SEM or not. It is also a good supplementary text for graduate courses in SEM." – Yanyun Yang, Florida State University, USA "The book is appropriate for graduate students in the social and behavioral sciences ... to help with the execution of statistical analysis. Students and researchers in varied social and behavioral programs will be interested in using the book. ...It is a great book to assist with AMOS." – Julian Montoro-Rodriquez, California State University, San Bernardino, USA