Find over 25,000 psychological definitions


structural equation modeling

(SEM) any of a broad range of multivariate analysis methods, including factor analysis and path analysis, that examine variances and covariances in order to find interrelationships among latent variables. For example, assume a researcher hypothesizes that job satisfaction leads to happiness. Both are latent variables that are not directly observable but are defined in terms of other measurable variables, such as judgments of job performance from supervisors and peers; self-reports about attitudes toward pay, supervision, type of work, and other job characteristics; results from psychological tests; and so forth. The researcher could use the measurable data to generate an equation representing the strength and nature of the links among the latent variables.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

anticholinergic syndrome

anticholinergic syndrome

a disorder produced by anticholinergic drugs and due to their antagonistic effects at acetylcholine receptors, marked by symptoms involving both the peripheral and central nervous systems. The former include dry mucous membranes, dry mouth, and flushed skin and face, whereas the latter include ataxia (unsteady gait), drowsiness, slurred speech, confusion and disorientation, hallucinations, and deficits, particularly of short-term memory. Tricyclic antidepressants, aliphatic phenothiazines, antiparkinsonian agents, and scopolamine are examples of drugs that can cause anticholinergic syndrome. This syndrome is often observed in patients receiving combinations of such drugs.