Basics of structural equation modeling

With the availability of software programs, such as LISREL, EQS, and AMOS, modelling (SEM) techniques have become a popular tool for formalized presentation of the hypothesized relationships underlying correlational research and test for the plausibility of the hypothesizing for a particular data set. However, the popularity of these techniques has often led to misunderstandings of them and even their misuse, particularly by students exposed to them for the first time. Through the use of careful narrative explanation, Maruyama's text describes the logic underlying SEM approaches, describes how SEM approaches relate to techniques like regression and factor analysis, analyzes the strengths and shortcomings of SEM as compared to alternative methodologies, and explores the various methodologies for analyzing structural equation data. In addition, Maruyama provides carefully constructed exercises both within and at the end of chapters.