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Obtaining maximum-likelihood estimates of factor loadings and communalities using an easily implemented iterative computer procedure

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Abstract

This paper considers the problem of computing estimates of factor loadings, specific variances, and communalities for a factor analytic model. The equations for maximum-likelihood estimators are discussed. Iterative formulas are developed to solve the maximum-likelihood equations and a simple and efficient method of implementation on a digital computer is described. Use of the iterative formulas and computing techniques for other estimators of factor loadings and communalities is also considered to provide a very general approach for this aspect of factor analysis.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Rhode Island, USA

    W. J. Hemmerle

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  1. W. J. Hemmerle
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Hemmerle, W.J. Obtaining maximum-likelihood estimates of factor loadings and communalities using an easily implemented iterative computer procedure. Psychometrika 30, 291–302 (1965). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02289492

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02289492

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