Testing! testing! one, two, three – Testing the theory in structural equation models!

Abstract

Barrett (2007) presents minor revisions to statements previously posted on Barrett’s website, and discussed on SEMNET (a web discussion group about structural equation modeling). Unfortunately, Barrett’s “recommendations” remain seriously statistically and methodologially flawed. Unlike Barrett, we see scientific value in reporting models that challenge or discredit theories. We critique Barrett’s way of proceeding in the context of both especially small and large samples, and we urge greater attention to the χ2 significance test.