Assignment 2: Structural Equation Modeling

In the second assignment, you will work individually to apply a structural equation model (SEM) that describes how several (latent) variables could be causally related.

Before estimating your SEM, you will evaluate the validity of your latent variables by using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test your hypothesized measurement model. You will include both your CFA and SEM results in your write-up. The inferences that you draw from an SEM are only valid if the underlying measurement model holds. So, the first step in reporting any SEM (at least any SEM that includes estimated latent constructs) is demonstrating the validity of the measurement model by reporting your CFA results.

Required Components

The obligatory aspects of the second assignment are described below.

  1. Choose a suitable dataset, and describe the data.
    • Unless you have a good reason to switch, you should work with the same data that you analyzed in Assignment 1.
    • If you need to switch, you can use any of the 8 datasets linked below.
  2. State the research question; define and explicate the theoretical SEM.
    • The structural component of this model must include, at least, three variables.
    • The structural model must include, at least, two latent variables.
    • At least one independent variable in your model must be latent.
    • You do not need to explicate a separate theory/research question/hypothsis for your measurement model.
  3. Translate your hypothesized measurement model into lavaan syntax, and estimate the CFA model.
    • Submit the (clean) R script along with your report.
      • Submit this R script as a separate file, not part of your report.
    • Include the lavaan syntax used to estimate your CFA models in your report.
  4. Report the results of your CFA.
    • Provide relevant output in a suitable format.
    • Include suitable parameter estimates.
    • Include measures of explained variance for the observed indicators.
    • Include measures of model fit.
    • Evaluate the model assumptions.
  5. Translate your theoretical SEM into lavaan syntax, and estimate the model.
    • Submit the (clean) R script along with your report.
      • Submit this R script as a separate file, not part of your report.
    • Include the lavaan syntax used to estimate your SEM model in your report.
  6. Report the results of your SEM.
    • Provide relevant output in a suitable format.
    • Include suitable parameter estimates.
    • Include measures of model fit.
    • Include measures of explained variance for the latent dependent variables.
  7. Discuss your findings.
    • Use your results to answer the research question.
    • Consider the strengths and limitations of your analysis.
    • Discuss any important decisions that could have influence your results.

Evaluation

See the Grading section below for more information on how Assignment 2 will be evaluated.

You can access an evaluation matrix for Assignment 2 here.

  • This matrix gives an indication of what level of work constitutes insufficient, sufficient, and excellent responses to the seven components described above.

Submission

Assignment 2 is due at 23:59 on Sunday 2 November 2025.