These multidimensional models also generalized well to new samples of populations differing in age from that used to estimate the model parameters. Multidimensional models of subtest performance provided better model fit as compared to several previously proposed one dimensional models.
The present study used structural equation modeling to evaluate several multidimensional models of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales- fourth edition (WAIS-IV) subtests. As a result, the simple structure of subtest performance results in complex latent factors. However these latent factors are not independent as they are related through hierarchical or oblique structures. Several latent factors are then used to model groups of subtests. Individual subtests in batteries designed to measure human abilities are commonly modeled as a single latent factor.
Performance on a cognitive test can be viewed either as measuring a unitary function or as reflecting the operation of multiple factors.
