A Multilevel CFA–MTMM Approach for Multisource Feedback Instruments: Presentation and Application of a New Statistical Model

Abstract

Multisource feedback instruments are a widely used tool in human resource management. However, comprehensive validation studies remain scarce and there is a lack of statistical models that account appropriately for the complex data structure. Because both peers and subordinates are nested within the target but stem from different populations, the assumption of traditional multilevel structural equation models that the sample on a lower level stems from the same population is violated. We present a multilevel confirmatory factor analysis multitrait–multimethod (ML–CFA–MTMM) model that considers this peculiarity of multisource feedback instruments. The model is applied to 2 scales of the Benchmarks® instrument and it is demonstrated how measures of reliability and of convergent and discriminant validity can be obtained using multilevel structural equation modeling software. We discuss the results as well as some implications and guidelines for the use of the model.

Keywords:

• confirmatory factor analysis
• convergent and discriminant validity
• method effects
• multisource feedback

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank the Center for Creative Leadership for providing the data used in this research.

Notes

¹ Please note that the indicator used here to quantify convergent validity is a variance component and not—as it is more common—a correlation coefficient.