Clustering Individuals Based on Similarity in Idiographic Factor Loading Patterns

• Published in: Multivariate behavioral research Vol. 60; no. 1; pp. 90 - 114
• Main Authors: Arizmendi, Cara J., Gates, Kathleen M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Routledge 02.01.2025; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Cluster Analysis; Clustering; Computer Simulation; Data Interpretation, Statistical; dynamic factor analysis; Factor analysis; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Humans; Idiographic; measurement invariance; Models, Statistical; p-technique; Recovery; Similarity; Time series; time series; clustering; p-technique; measurement invariance; dynamic factor analysis; Idiographic
• ISSN: 0027-3171; 1532-7906; 1532-7906
• DOI: 10.1080/00273171.2024.2374826

Idiographic measurement models such as p-technique and dynamic factor analysis (DFA) assess latent constructs at the individual level. These person-specific methods may provide more accurate models than models obtained from aggregated data when individuals are heterogeneous in their processes. Developing clustering methods for the grouping of individuals with similar measurement models would enable researchers to identify if measurement model subtypes exist across individuals as well as assess if the different models correspond to the same latent concept or not. In this paper, methods for clustering individuals based on similarity in measurement model loadings obtained from time series data are proposed. We review literature on idiographic factor modeling and measurement invariance, as well as clustering for time series analysis. Through two studies, we explore the utility and effectiveness of these measures. In Study 1, a simulation study is conducted, demonstrating the recovery of groups generated to have differing factor loadings using the proposed clustering method. In Study 2, an extension of Study 1 to DFA is presented with a simulation study. Overall, we found good recovery of simulated clusters and provide an example demonstrating the method with empirical data.