A Longitudinal Study of a Multivariate Model of the Stress Process Using Structural Equations Modeling

Abstract

This study developed and tested a longitudinal multivariate model of the stress process using an intensive structural equations modeling (SEM) approach. The use of latent variables permits a powerful test of the causal relationships between stress process constructs. Anderson and Gerbing's (1988) two-stage process of analysis was followed: A measurement model was examined in Stage One of the analysis; structural verification of the proposed stress process model using a panel design was tested in Stage Two. Findings from both stages contribute to our understanding of stress by uncovering some dynamic components underlying the stress process. This study offered a sophisticated methodological examination into the complexity inherent in uncovering the dynamics of the stress process.