Latent variables are
A) measured directly, such as by having research participants fill out a set of questionnaires.
B) derived from a set of observed scores through the use of confirmatory factor analysis.
C) components of measured variables that generalize across participant populations.
D) the sums of participants' scores on the set of variables loading on a given factor in a factor analysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Latent variables cannot be measured directly, they are inferred from observed variables using statistical methods like confirmatory factor analysis. Therefore, choice A and D are incorrect. Choice C is not entirely accurate as latent variables are not components of measured variables but rather underlying constructs that are not directly observable.

Latent Variables Are