ABSTRACT
A covariance structure model—also known as a structural equation model—is a mathematical model for the structure that underlies a covariance matrix. This nomenclature brings a variety of well-known techniques under the same umbrella, including path analysis, factor analysis, LISREL modeling, seemingly unrelated regressions, and simultaneous equations models. This chapter presents an introduction to covariance structure modeling, with particular attention to path analysis, factor analysis, and LISREL models. Because these are all variants of regression models, it is assumed that the reader has a solid understanding of multiple regression. To illustrate the paradigm of covariance structure analysis, I begin with traditional path analysis. I then turn to factor analysis, distinguishing confirmatory from exploratory approaches. Last, I consider the full covariance structure, or LISREL, model, which is a combination of path and factor analysis.
