Abstract

MENDEZ MARTINEZ, Carolina  and  RONDON SEPULVEDA, Martín Alonso. Introduction to Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2012, vol.41, n.1, pp.197-207. ISSN 0034-7450.

Introduction: Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has become one of the most frequently used statistical techniques, especially in the medical and social sciences. Given its popularity, it is essential to understand the basic concepts necessary for its proper application and to take into consideration the main strengths and weaknesses of this technique. Objective: To present in a clear and concise manner the main applications of this technique, to determine the basic requirements for its use providing a description step by step of its methodology, and to establish the elements that must be taken into account during its preparation in order to not incur in erroneous results and interpretations. Methodology: Narrative review. Development: This review identifies the basic concepts and briefly describes the objectives, design, assumptions, and methodology to achieve factor derivation, global adjustment evaluation, and adequate interpretation of results.

Keywords : Statistical factor analysis; validity of tests; evaluation; methodology.

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