Bivariate models of fit in contingency theory - Critique and a polynomial regression alternative

The concept of fit in contingency theory has been modeled in ways that made it less conducive to detection. Each model of fit postulates a specific relationship between the structural, contingency, and outcome variables. Operationalization is then derived from this relationship. Conversely, a polynomial regression model would allow for a more generalized notion of fit while capturing the same forms of fit implied by existing models in a simpler, general, robust, and less constrained way.