Factor Structure of Cognitive Ability Measures in Older African Americans
Abstract
This study examined the fluid-crystallized distinction of cognitive abilities in African Americans. We analyzed the factorial invariance of a battery of cognitive ability measures in a sample of 197 community-dwelling African American elders. Specifically, factorial invariance was tested in groups of African American elders differing in age (50-61 years, 62-79 years) and education (low, high). Using a partial invariance approach, if non-invariance was found between two groups, we explored the specific model parameters that contributed to the overall lack of invariance. the results indicated that the factor structure was confirmed in the sample as a whole. Evidence of strict invariance was found between age groups. However, a lack of invariance of specific factor loadings, intercepts, and uniqueness terms was found between education groups. the importance of highlighting idiosyncrasies in cognitive performance among African Americans is shown using a within group variation approach.
Recommended Citation
Whitefield, K. E., Allaire, J. C., Gamaldo, A. A., & Bichsel, J. (2010). Factor Structure of Cognitive Ability Measures in Older African Americans. Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology, 25(3), pp. 271-284. Springer Verlag.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1007/s10823-010-9120-z
Department(s)
Psychological Science
Sponsor(s)
National Institute on Aging
Keywords and Phrases
African Americans; Education
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2010 Springer Verlag, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Sep 2010
