This is a comprehensive introduction to configural frequency analysis, its rationale, and various modifications. When more individuals than expected display a pattern of characteristics, these individuals belong to a type. When fewer individuals than expected display a pattern they belong to an antitype. This book deals with methods that focus on groups of subjects in contingency tables. A many-faceted statistical method, CFA is useful whenever categorical variables are analyzed. The original contribution of this text is the linking of CFA to log-linear modeling and the general linear model, enabling the reader to relate CFA to a well-known statistical background.

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 methods that focus on relationships among variables, such as log-linear modeling, 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 unique book provides a comprehensive and detailed coverage of configural frequency analysis (CFA), the most useful method of analysis of categorical data in person-oriented research. It presents the foundations, methods, and models of CFA and features numerous empirical data examples from a range of disciplines that can be reproduced by the readers. It also addresses computer applications, including relevant R packages and modules. Configural frequency analysis is a statistical method that allows the processing of important and interesting questions in categorical data. The perspective of CFA differs from the usual perspective of relations among variables; its focus is on patterns of variable categories that stand out with respect to specific hypotheses, and as such, CFA allows for testing numerous substantive hypotheses. The book describes the origins of CFA and their relation to chi-square analysis as well as the developments that are based on log-linear modeling. The models covered range from simple models of variable independence to complex models that are needed when causal hypotheses are tested. Empirical data examples are provided for each model. New models are introduced for person-oriented mediation analysis and locally optimized time series analysis, and new results concerning the characteristics of CFA methods are bolstered using Monte Carlo simulations. Primarily intended for researchers and students in the social and behavioral sciences, the book will also appeal to anyone who deals with categorical data from a person-centered perspective.

Configural Frequency Analysis (CFA) provides an up-to-the-minute comprehensive introduction to its techniques, models, and applications. Written in a formal yet accessible style, actual empirical data examples are used to illustrate key concepts. Step-by-step program sequences are used to show readers how to employ CFA methods using commercial software packages, such as SAS, SPSS, SYSTAT, S-Plus, or those written specifically to perform CFA. CFA is an important method for analyzing results involved with categorical and longitudinal data. It allows one to answer the question of whether individual cells or groups of cells of cross-classifications differ significantly from expectations. The expectations are calculated using methods employed in log-linear modeling or a priori information. It is the only statistical method that allows one to make statements about empty areas in the data space. Applied and or person-oriented researchers, statisticians, and advanced students interested in CFA and categorical and longitudinal data will find this book to be a valuable resource. Developed since 1969, this method is now used by a large number of researchers around the world in a variety of disciplines, including psychology, education, medicine, and sociology. Configural Frequency Analysis will serve as an excellent text for courses on configural frequency analysis, categorical variable analysis, or analysis of contingency tables. Prerequisites include an understanding of descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, statistical model fitting, and some understanding of categorical data analysis and matrix algebra.

The book features recommendations for further study, think breaks and exercises. Full answer keys to the exercises are provided on the book's companion website which is part of a newsgroup where readers can download all data and code, post questions, and receive feedback from other readers and the author. --Book Jacket.

Research today demands the application of sophisticated and powerful research tools. Fulfilling this need, The Oxford Handbook of Quantitative Methods is the complete tool box to deliver the most valid and generalizable answers to todays complex research questions. It is a one-stop source for learning and reviewing current best-practices in quantitative methods as practiced in the social, behavioral, and educational sciences. Comprising two volumes, this handbook covers a wealth of topics related to quantitative research methods. It begins with essential philosophical and ethical issues related to science and quantitative research. It then addresses core measurement topics before delving into the design of studies. Principal issues related to modern estimation and mathematical modeling are also detailed. Topics in the handbook then segway into the realm of statistical inference and modeling with chapters dedicated to classical approaches as well as modern latent variable approaches. Numerous chapters associated with longitudinal data and more specialized techniques round out this broad selection of topics. Comprehensive, authoritative, and user-friendly, this two-volume set will be an indispensable resource for serious researchers across the social, behavioral, and educational sciences.