On the distortion of loadings in comparing the bifactor model and the second-order model
(A2025-125744)

AUTHORS

Pierre-Charles Soulié, University of south Brittany

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this research is to compare, the second-order symmetrical model (SOSYM) and the bifactor symmetrical model (BFSYM) in terms of loadings associated with the proportionality condition. With a simulation study, items’ loadings on first-order order factors of both models are compared. Results show that SOSYM model, because of the proportionality condition, tends to artificially yield more homogenous loadings leading to biased values. Magnitude in homogenization is observed to be associated with the degree of violation. At low level of violation, there is no significant difference between both models. In contrast, at moderate to high level of violation the SOSYM significantly homogenizes loadings, leading to substantive differences between both models. We recommend, therefore, to apply the BFSYM in addition to the SOSYM in order to check the presence of biased loadings.