Bootstrap estimates of standard errors in validity generalization.

Bootstrapping is introduced as a method for approximating the standard errors of validity generalization (VG) estimates. A Monte Carlo study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of bootstrap validity-distribution parameter estimates, bootstrap standard error estimates, and nonparametric bootstrap confidence intervals. In the simulation study the authors manipulated the sample sizes per correlation coefficient, the number of coefficients per VG analysis, and the variance of the distribution of true correlation coefficients. The results indicate that the standard error estimates produced by the bootstrapping procedure were very accurate. It is recommended that the bootstrap standard-error estimates and confidence intervals be used in the interpretation of the results of VG analyses. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

An unbiased correction for sampling error in validity generalization studies.

A correction for variance due to sampling error is part of all the statistical procedures used to study validity generalization. This correction is analogous to estimation of a variance component in a random effects analysis of variance. The correction usually has a large influence on the results of validity generalization analyses. James, Demaree, and Mulaik (1986) recently questioned the correction for sampling error, suggesting that several of the assumptions required for its derivation are questionable. In this article, I provide an alternative correction for sampling error that is shown to be (exactly) unbiased. A comparison of the calculations involved in the computation of the unbiased correction with the calculations involved in the calculation of the usual correction suggests that the 2 corrections will rarely differ substantially. Hence, the usual correction is not seriously biased. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

"Failures to detect moderating effects with ordinary least squares-moderated multiple regression: Some reasons and a remedy": Correction to Morris et al.

Reports an error in "Failures to detect moderating effects with ordinary least squares-moderated multiple regression: Some reasons and a remedy" by James H. Morris, J. Daniel Sherman and Edward R. Mansfield (Psychological Bulletin, 1986[Mar], Vol 99[2], 282-288). Several errors went uncorrected. On page 283, the second line of the first full paragraph should read "in Equation 3...." On page 284, in the eighth line of the first full paragraph, the power in the equation should be "1/2," not "12." On page 287, in Table 4, the heading for column 6 should read "Adjusted SS for deletion of X?X?," not just "X?." The heading for column 7 should read "H?: β?=0c, partial F," not "β?." Finally, in line 3 of the table note, "X?X?" should read "X?,X?." (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 1986-16215-001.) Describes a means for determining circumstances when ordinary least squares/moderated multiple regression (OLS/MMR) may be at risk in moderator applications and suggests an alternative regression procedure that can be used to overcome the threat of Type II error posed by these circumstances. Using field study data on job satisfaction of employees at state institutions for the developmentally disabled, parallel analyses are presented to show how markedly different results can be obtained between OLS/MMR and the remedial procedure. It is suggested that investigators who have reached conclusions with the traditional OLS/MMR approach reexamine their data. (23 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

A note on validity generalization procedures.

Reviews validity generalization (VG) procedures and finds them to be subject to the logical fallacy of "affirming the consequent." It is argued that alternative models may explain variation in validity coefficients as well as the cross-situational consistency model espoused by many users of the VG approach. Moreover, some of the assumptions that form the statistical foundation of VG work are open to question. It is suggested that Fisher z transformations, which remove most of these problems and usually produce more conservative estimates of the degree to which sampling error may account for variability in correlations, be used. It is also recommended that a more stringent criterion than the 75% decision rule for rejecting the situational specificity hypothesis be used. (64 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Psychologic aspects of patients with symptoms presumed to be caused by electricity or visual display units

Psychologic factors were studied in 10 patients with symptoms presumed to be caused by electricity (EG) and in 10 patients with symptoms presumed to be caused by visual display units (VG) and compared with a sex- and age-matched control group (CG). Psychologic differences between the EG and VG were also measured. The symptoms presumed to be caused by electricity or visual display units were registered, and the personality, psychologic functioning, and quality of life were determined by using the Karolinska Scales of Personality (KSP), an additional Personality Scale (PS), a Psychological Functioning Scale (PFS), and a quality of Life Scale (QLS). The results showed that the commonest general symptoms in the EG/VG were skin complaints, fatigue, pain, and dizziness, and the commonest oral symptoms were gustatory disturbance, burning mouth, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The patients in the EG described more different types of both general and oral symptoms than those in the VG. The result showed that the VG scored significantly higher only in the KSP Somatic Anxiety and Muscular Tension scales, and the EG scored significantly lower in the KSP Socialization scale and significantly higher in the Somatic Anxiety, Muscular Tension, and Psychasthenia scales. In addition, only the EG differed significantly on the PS, PFS, and QLS. The EG differed significantly in such psychologic aspects as being more fatigued in the PS, in having more difficulty in concentrating, in taking the initiative, and in getting on with people in the PFS and experiencing inactivity and visiting other people rarely in the QLS. The conclusion was that patients with symptoms presumed to be caused by electricity and visual display units differed from each other psychologically and, therefore, should be handled clinically in different ways. The need for an interdisciplinary approach to these patients is emphasized.     

Introspecting in the spirit of William James: Comment on Fox, Ericsson, and Best (2011).

Fox, Ericsson, and Best's (2011) thoughtful justification of the use of think-aloud protocols for revealing the stream of consciousness comes on the centennial of the death of William James, history's greatest practitioner and advocate of introspection. This confluence naturally invites speculation about how James might have responded to the analysis of Fox et al. I suggest that although James would likely view the think-aloud procedure as a scientifically rigorous form of introspection, he would also admonish us not to overlook its limitations. Most notably, although the think-aloud procedure readily captures substantive verbal thoughts, it is less able to capture inchoate cognitions. The conclusion that verbal protocols are nonreactive also raises several additional issues. First, the nonreactivity of thinking aloud does not necessarily speak to its validity. Second, the conclusion that verbal protocols are benign is at odds with recent findings in which verbalization impairs performance on various tasks. I suggest that whereas James might express some concerns regarding aspects of conscious thought that may be overlooked by the think-aloud procedure as well as some caution regarding the possible situations in which thinking aloud might still be reactive, he would almost certainly be pleased to see introspection finally getting the scientific grounding that it deserves. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

Wrought versus powder forged connecting rods

Abstract

Powder forged (PF) connecting rods represent an outstanding success story for PM; more than 500 million con rods have been installed in automobiles since 1986 and PF is currently the preferred route for 60% of the 100 million con rods manufactured annually in North America. The wrought steel sector is attacking this market with recently developed crackable forging steels. In January, MPIF issued a white paper by James R. Dale, responding to claims that these steels provide benefits over PF rods.     

Responding to the HIV epidemic: A national strategy.

Admiral James Watkins (Retired), the chairman of the Presidential Commission on the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemic, discusses the work of the commission, including obstacles to progress the nation faces in attempting to respond to the epidemic and recommendations for improving the nation's response. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

An empirical Monte Carlo test of the accuracy of the correlation, covariance, and regression slope models for assessing validity generalization.

An empirical Monte Carlo study with a large data base (N?=?84,808) was conducted to determine the accuracy of the correlation, covariance, and regression slope models for assessing validity generalization (VG). This study has resulted in the following three major conclusions: (1) The correlation between sampling errors and population parameters appears to be close to zero; (2) when the sampling error is the only artifact, all three models do well in estimating the relevant parameters across three sample sizes and 10 different numbers of validity studies per VG study; and (3) when the predictor reliability, criterion reliability, and range restriction are also included as artifacts, the accuracy of estimation depends on how closely the hypothetical and true distributions of artifacts match. All three models performed inadequately when the match between the two sets of distributions was poor. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Validity generalization in the context of situational models.

A primary objective of validity generalization (VG) analysis is to decompose the between-situation variance in validities into (1) variance attributable to between-situation differences in statistical artifacts and (2) variance attributable to between-situation differences in (unidentified) situational moderators. This process is based on the assumption that the effects of statistical artifacts on validities are independent of the effects of situational moderators on validities. The present article seeks to question the independence assumption by theoretically integrating situational variables into the VG estimation process. It is shown that the independence assumption may be untenable because at least 1 artifact (criterion reliability) is a function of, rather than independent of, the situational variables that moderate validities. An alternative approach to VG analysis is recommended. This approach rests heavily on proactive research designs in which potential situational moderators are included in the generalizability analysis. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Use of ECT in the United States in 1975, 1980, and 1986

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to analyze nationally representative data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to update trends in the use of ECT in the United States. METHOD: The data are estimates from the NIMH Sample Survey Program for 1975, 1980, and 1986, which include representative samples of inpatients in psychiatric facilities in the United States. The authors' analyses use trend data from public general hospitals, private general hospitals, private psychiatric hospitals, and state and county mental hospitals. They report on 126,739 patients who received ECT in 1975, 1980, and 1986, focusing on data from 1980 and 1986. RESULTS: In 1986, 36,558 patients received ECT. This represents a decrease from the 1975 figure (58,667 patients) but no change from 1980 (31,514 patients). ECT was used primarily in private general hospitals (64%) and private psychiatric hospitals and much less often in public general hospitals and state and county mental hospitals. In 1986 over 90% of ECT recipients were white, and 84% had an affective disorder diagnosis. Although 71% of the patients who received ECT were women, hospital type and age were more important than gender in predicting ECT use. Individuals 65 years of age and older received ECT out of proportion to their numbers in inpatient care. CONCLUSIONS: The declining use of ECT in the United States ended in the 1980s. Few African Americans receive ECT, and its use is becoming more targeted toward patients with affective disorders. The amount of services research done on this modality is very small. Basic questions have yet to be answered, including who refers patients for ECT and why, and how ECT fits into the overall course of treatment.     

The psychologist’s dilemma: To subject the self to science—or science to the self?

William James, one of the major founders of modern scientific psychology, spoke often about "the psychologist's fallacy." This fallacy resulted (and still results) from the tendency of psychologists to confuse their analyses of subjective experience with the nature of so-called objective reality. A related, though less attended problem revolved (and revolves) around what I shall call "the psychologist's dilemma." Although this latter problem was shared by other psychologists at the turn of this century, I will discuss it with special reference to the thought and work of William James. I have chosen to do so partially because James's own psychological and philosophical works reflect the import and centrality of this dilemma in the history of the human sciences, and partially in recognition and honor of the one hundredth anniversary of James's two-volume masterpiece, The Principles of Psychology, which will be celebrated in 1990. As I hope will be clear, this dilemma continues to be relevant to the concerns of contemporary psychologists. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Epilepsy provoked by television and video games: safety of 100-Hz screens

Television (TV) and video games (VG) can provoke seizures in patients with photosensitive epilepsies. Flicker frequency is the most important factor in screen activation. We tested conventional 50-Hz versus 100-Hz monitors during TV viewing and VG playing in 30 photosensitive subjects, 23 of whom had a history of TV or VG seizures or both. Fifteen subjects' discharges were activated by 50-Hz TV; 17 by 50-Hz VG; and one by a 100-Hz screen. Thus, 100-Hz screens protect against screen activation.     

Similarity, identification, and categorization: Comment on Ashby and Lee (1991).

F. G. Ashby and W. W. Lee (see record 1991-23345-001) tested various models derived from the general recognition theory (GRT; Ashby and N. A. Perrin, 1988; Ashby and J. T. Townsend, 1986) on their ability to predict and interrelate similarity, categorization, and identification performance. This commentary (1) argues that contrary to Ashby and Lee's suggestion, the likelihood-based GRT cannot generally predict categorization from identification without incorporating selective attention, (2) argues that the categorization rule in the likelihood-based GRT is extremely close in spirit to R. M. Nosofsky's (1986) exemplar-based similarity model, (3) reports new model-based analyses that call into question Ashby and Lee's interpretation of their identification-confusion data, (4) raises questions about the identification and similarity models tested by Ashby and Lee, and (5) criticizes Ashby and Lee's methods of fitting and evaluating the various models. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

"How automatic are social judgments?" Correction to Winter, Uleman, and Cunniff.

Reports an error in "How automatic are social judgments" by Laraine Winter, James S. Uleman and Cathryn Cunniff (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 1985[Oct], Vol 49[4], 904-917). There are errors in the labeling of the ordinates of the figures. The correct labeling is provided in the erratum. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 1986-03720-001.) Adapted the encoding-specificity paradigm developed by D. Thomson and E. Tulving (see record 1971-03487-001) to test 3 operational indicants of automatism (absence of intention, of interference from other mental activity, and of awareness). Recruited for a digit-recall study, 95 undergraduate students read sentences describing actions during the retention interval of either an easy or a difficult digit-recall task. Later, sentence recall was cued by (a) disposition cues, (b) strong semantic associates to the sentence actor, or (c) words representing the gist of the sentence, or (d) sentence recall was not cued. Awareness was measured immediately after the last sentence was read. Disposition-cued recall was higher than (b) or (d) and was unaffected by digit recall difficulty. Awareness of making dispositional inferences was only weakly correlated with disposition-cued recall. Results suggest that disposition inferences occurred at encoding, without intention, without interference by differential drain on processing capacity, and with little awareness. Thus, making dispositional inferences seems to be largely, but not entirely, automatic. (50 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Witmer, James, and Münsterberg.

Briefly comments on the L. T. Benjamin article (see record 1996-03525-010) regarding the contributions of Lightner Witmer to the field of applied psychology. The present author notes an incident documented in the correspondence between Hugo Münsterberg and William James as having occurred when the APA was to have its meeting at Harvard University in the early part of the 20th century. Witmer's publishing of critical comments about James' work are said to have so incensed Münsterberg, the Philosophy/Psychology Department Chair at Harvard, that he declared that the meetings would not be held at Harvard unless Witmer was expelled from APA. James intervened, and the meetings were held. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Correspondence between the Campbell and van Genuchten Soil-Water-Retention Models

Two methods are presented that allow converting the van Genuchten (VG) soil-water-retention (SWR) model parameters to equivalent parameters of the Campbell (C) model. The first method builds on an available solution to convert the VG model to an equivalent Brooks-Corey (BC) model, but accounts for the fact that the effective water content of the BC model and the C model are not the same, because the C model lacks the residual water content parameter, θr. The second method (II) relies on a curve-fitting exercise (minimizing the differences between the VG and C-SWR curves) to derive simultaneously the optimal capacity-matching point and SWR-matching point. Results indicate that the second method outperforms the first method and yields an improved equivalence. To bypass the time-consuming curve-fitting exercise, based on Method II two empirical regression equations are presented that allow rapid calculation of the two C-parameters, air-entry and Campbell-b, by the corresponding VG-SWR parameters.     

Information-acquisition rate, short-term memory, and cognitive equivalence: Reply to Sperling.

Comments on the model proposed by G. Sperling (see record 1986-21117-001) to explain phenomenon related to duration regions in the effect of stimulus luminance on visual information, summarizing the similarities and differences with the position of the present author (see record 1986-13571-001). It is suggested that equal performance following relatively short durations results from equivalent cognitive states, whereas equal performance following longer durations results from different cognitive states. (9 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)