Contribuições da Análise Fatorial Confirmatória Multigrupo (AFCMG) na avaliação de invariância de instrumentos psicométricos

TLDR: The Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA) as discussed by the authors is a structural equation modeling technique which evaluates to what extent the configuration and the parameters of a psychometric instrument are invariant (equivalent) in several groups.

Abstract: The Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA) is a structural equation modeling technique which evaluates to what extent the configuration and the parameters of a psychometric instrument are invariant (equivalent) in several groups. This technique is being presented as an important resource in the development, use, evaluation and refinement of psychometric instruments. However, in Brazil, there is a significant lack of publications considering the topic. Thus, the present study discusses the MGCFA technique, presenting its potentialities. Throughout the article, three major topics are covered: the different models to be tested, the issue of complete and partial measurement invariance, and the measurement invariance evaluation. It is expected that this article assist researchers in the comprehension, interpretation and use of the MGCFA.