Sample size guideline for exploratory factor analysis when using small sample: Taking into considerations of different measurement scales

摘要

Sample size guideline for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was long established however none investigate the effect from the difference of measurement scales. The authors are concern if researchers prefer to use the minimum number of sample size from the guideline in conducting EFA especially in the clinical setting since it is difficult to get enough sample size. Here, the authors present a guideline of sample size requirement according to various types of measurement scales and also suggest guideline if any researcher planned to apply the rule of thumb that proposes the smallest number of sample size for EFA.