Advances in Configural Frequency Analysis

Advances in Configural Frequency Analysis

Alexander A. von Eye, Patrick Mair, and Eun-Young Mun

April 2010
304 Pages
Size: 7" x 10"
ISBN 9781606237199


Using real-world data examples, this authoritative book shows how to use the latest configural frequency analysis (CFA) techniques to analyze categorical data. Some of the techniques are presented here for the first time. In contrast to such methods as log-linear modeling, which focus on relationships among variables, CFA allows researchers to evaluate differences and change at the level of individual cells in a table. Illustrated are ways to identify and test for cell configurations that are either consistent with or contrary to hypothesized patterns (the types and antitypes of CFA); control for potential covariates that might influence observed results; develop innovative prediction models; address questions of moderation and mediation; and analyze intensive longitudinal data. The book also describes free software applications for executing CFA.

This title is part of the Methodology in the Social Sciences Series, edited by Todd D. Little.

Reviews
"This book offers an outstanding presentation of advances in configural frequency analysis. In particular, the chapters on methods for the investigation of mediation, moderation, and longitudinal data will be very useful to researchers. These new approaches to configural analysis represent a valuable approach to answering and generating new research questions....This is a good book for categorical data analysis courses and an important reference for researchers applying the method."

-David P. MacKinnon, Department of Psychology, Arizona State University


"The authors describe steps for using state-of-the-art statistical methods, writing in a manner that facilitates analysis and understanding of complex statistical concepts. Included are examples showing how to apply configural frequency analysis to handle categorical data using longitudinal and factorial designs."

-Mildred M. Maldonado-Molina, Department of Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, University of Florida


"Clearly written and loaded with excellent examples, this book takes the reader through cross-sectional and longitudinal models, including interesting approaches to mediator and moderator analysis and auto-association modeling. The authors' practical approach allows the researcher to immediately implement these very advanced models."

-Michael J. Rovine, Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University


"There is a wealth of operational detail about the statistical base of configural frequency analysis and computational logistics. Other strengths of the book are the use of program output to illustrate points and the helpful chapter summaries."

-Paula S. Nurius, School of Social Work, University of Washington


"A very user-friendly book that offers practical examples of many advanced topics for those interested in a new person-oriented data analytic approach. I appreciated how the same data examples were used in different chapters in order to illustrate the different types of questions that can be answered through configural frequency analysis. This helps the reader stay focused on the material at hand and reinforces the general applicability of the method to a wide variety of research questions."

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