UC Davis

Psychological researchers investigate complex phenomena with imperfect measures and limited resources. Quantitative methods can ameliorate these challenges, but only when the methods applied match the research question and goal. Because of this, methodologists explore the consequences of mismatched methodology, and develop guidelines for methodology selection. Regardless of the research question, it is important to (1) clearly state the theoretical target, (2) select an estimate that can inform this theoretical target, and (3) select a valid estimator for the estimate. The following chapters in this dissertation focus on proposing a guide for variable selection, developing a model that allows for the integration of information across models (both important for estimate selection), and evaluating different estimation approaches (important for selection of the estimator).