Question

All of the following statements about the factor analytic method of personality test construction are true except one. Which statement is FALSE?

A) Factor analysis is used to identify underlying dimensions or factors that explain patterns of correlations among personality traits.
B) The goal is to reduce a large number of observed variables (personality traits) into a smaller set of underlying factors.
C) Factor analysis relies on statistical techniques to determine the theoretical basis for personality traits.
D) The factor analytic method is primarily concerned with the individual interpretation of specific personality traits rather than identifying broader dimensions.

Answer 1

The false statement is that factor analytic method is primarily concerned with individual interpretation of specific personality traits. It actually aims to identify broader dimensions by reducing many traits into a smaller set of factors like the Big Five.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement about the factor analytic method of personality test construction that is FALSE is: The factor analytic method is primarily concerned with the individual interpretation of specific personality traits rather than identifying broader dimensions. In fact, the reverse is true. Factor analysis aims to identify broader underlying dimensions amongst numerous personality traits, as opposed to focusing on individual traits. It uses statistical techniques to examine the relationships among various traits and to reduce the complex set of observed characteristics into a smaller set of factors, such as the widely recognized Five Factor Model, which includes openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.