Hierarchical Factor Analysis of the K-ABC: Testing Alternate Models

Abstract

The Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children is a new, individually administered test designed to assess simultaneous and sequential mental processing and achievement in children ages 2 ½ to 12 ½. Factor analyses of the K-ABC standardization data generally offer support for the validity of the two mental processing scales, but analyses including the achievement tests have been considerably less supportive. For the present study, data from the standardization sample were used to test alternate structures for the K-ABC, based on the hypothesis that the test measures verbal memory skills, and verbal and nonverbal reasoning. Hierarchical factor models based on this structure were developed and tested using confirmatory techniques. Results suggest that the models fit the data fairly well, thus supporting the validity of this alternate structure. Of particular interest was the finding of the virtual equivalence of the verbal reasoning factor and the second order, or general ability, factor. It appears that users should exercise caution when interpreting K-ABC scores, especially scores on the K-ABC achievement scale.