Comparison of Multitrait-Multimethod, Factor, and Smallest Space Analysis on Personality Scale Data

Abstract

A multitrait-multimethod matrix of four personality constructs, social desirability, neuroticism, extraversion, and masculinity-femininity, measured by three instruments, Comrey Personality Scales, Eysenck Personality Scales, and MMPI, were analyzed by classical factor analysis and smallest space analysis. The results of both procedures showed excellent agreement, giving four clearly defined orthogonal factors as well as four clearly separated regions in space for the personality constructs, confirming the convergent and discriminant validity of the data obtained in a previous study. The results are attributed in part to the special testing instructions designed to minimize faking and social desirability responding.