| Abstract: | ![]()
Investigated the stop-distance procedure for measuring personal space, using maximum likelihood estimation of structural equation models. Three data sets previously described by the author (see PA, Vols 67:5708 and 68:1091) were examined. Results challenge the factor model underlying recent estimates of the reliability of the stop-distance procedure and convincingly demonstrate the reliability of stop-distance measurements. About 97% of the variance in observed distances arose from sources other than structural measurement error. About 8% of the variance in measured distances was due to sources that reflected unidentified causal determinants of spacing. The repeated failures of the factor model and the repeated successes of the simplex model require a fundamental shift in the conceptualization of personal space. The failure of the factor model implies that momentary spatial preferences should not be considered as merely reflecting a stable underlying preference or as a repeated and momentary construction based on stable situational features. Personal space should be considered as a dynamic process that is continually open to modification but that shows considerable stability due to the persistence of previously maintained distances. (French abstract) (12 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
