Structural Equation Modeling

Bruce H. Pugesek

ISBN 10: 0521104025 / ISBN 13: 9780521104029

Published by Cambridge University Press, GB, 2009

About this Item

Structural equation modelling (SEM) is a technique that is used to estimate, analyse and test models that specify relationships among variables. The ability to conduct such analyses is essential for many problems in ecology and evolutionary biology. This book begins by explaining the theory behind the statistical methodology, including chapters on conceptual issues, the implementation of an SEM study and the history of the development of SEM. The second section provides examples of analyses on biological data including multi-group models, means models, P-technique and time-series. The final section of the book deals with computer applications and contrasts three popular SEM software packages. Aimed specifically at biological researchers and graduate students, this book will serve as valuable resource for both learning and teaching the SEM methodology. Moreover, data sets and programs that are presented in the book can also be downloaded from a website to assist the learning process.

Seller Inventory # LU-9780521104029

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Structural Equation Modeling
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press, GB
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521104025
• ISBN 13: 9780521104029
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Weight: 620 grams

About this title

Synopsis

This book presents an introduction to the methodology of structural equation modeling, illustrates its use, and goes on to argue that it has revolutionary implications for the study of natural systems. A major theme of this book is that we have, up to this point, attempted to study systems primarily using methods (such as the univariate model) that were designed only for considering individual processes. Understanding systems requires the capacity to examine simultaneous influences and responses. Structural equation modeling (SEM) has such capabilities. It also possesses many other traits that add strength to its utility as a means of making scientific progress. In light of the capabilities of SEM, it can be argued that much of ecological theory is currently locked in an immature state that impairs its relevance. It is further argued that the principles of SEM are capable of leading to the development and evaluation of multivariate theories of the sort vitally needed for the conservation of natural systems. Supplementary information can be found at the authors website,http://www.jamesbgrace.com/. Details why multivariate analyses should be used to study ecological systems Exposes unappreciated weakness in many current popular analyses Emphasises the future methodological developments needed to advance our understanding of ecological systems

About the Authors

Bruce Pugesek is a research statistician in the U.S. Department of the Interior and is adjunct professor in the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences at The Louisiana State University.

Adrian Tomer is an Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology at Shippensburg University, Pennsylvania, where he teaches the psychology of aging and developmental psychology.

Alexander von Eye is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Michigan State University.