Exploratory factor analysis in validation studies: Uses and recommendations

Background: The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) procedure is one of the most commonly used in social and behavioral sciences. However, it is also one of the most criticized due to the poor management researchers usually display. The main goal is to examine the relationship between practices usually considered more appropriate and actual decisions made by researchers. Method: The use of exploratory factor analysis is examined in 117 papers published between 2011 and 2012 in 3 Spanish psychological journal with the highest impact within the previous five years. Results: Results show significant rates of questionable decisions in conducting EFA, based on unjustified or mistaken decisions regarding the method of extraction, retention, and rotation of factors. Conclusions: Overall, the current review provides support for some improvement guidelines regarding how to apply and report an EFA.