Recently in psychology, sociology and other sciences the factorial analysis is widely applied. This scientific method allows to describe comprehensively and compactly studied object. Use of the factorial analysis gives the chance to reveal the hidden factors influencing statistical communications between the variables entering the analysis. Today more often such method is applied in applied researches, for example, at assessment of profitability of the enterprises.
Instruction
1. For carrying out the factorial analysis use the computer SPSS program (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). Except data processing within the factorial analysis this program allows to carry out the dispersive analysis, to apply nonparametric methods and to graphically represent results of the data obtained in researches. Install the specified program on the computer and start.
2. Prepare data for carrying out the factorial analysis. For example, it can be statistical data on results of the sociological poll concerning one of social problems. Keep the results of sociological poll estimated on any given scale in the separate file with the .sav expansion.
3. Open the specified file in the program. Choose the Factorial Analysis tab in the Analysis menu. You will see the opened dialog box. Place in the field of the tested variables the variables which are available for you (results of poll in numerical expression).
4. Click on the Descriptive Statisticians button, having left a conclusion of primary results of the analysis including primary statisticians and dispersions of simple factors. If necessary leave also correlation coefficients and one-dimensional statisticians.
5. By means of the Selection button choose a selection method. At difficulties in the choice leave values by default; at the same time the number of the selected factors will be equated to number of own values.
6. As the Rotation switch choose a rotation method. In the simplest case stop the choice by a method of a varimaks, having left active a conclusion of a matrix of factors. Now you can organize a conclusion of factorial loadings in a three-dimensional graphic look.
7. To find values of factors, use the Values switch and note factors, having chosen "To keep as variables". For carrying out calculations click on the OK button. In a review window you will see results including primary statisticians and factors.
8. Now try to explain the selected factors. For this purpose print out the displayed table, and then in every line of a factorial matrix note factorial loading with the greatest absolute value. As a result you have to receive not less than three factors which you should analyze already from the qualitative point of view, without application of program methods. In the most ideal option you have to carry out a verbal explanation of factors, having given them intelligent names.