Assessing insider and outsider views of the circumplex model constructs: A structural equation modeling approach
Abstract
The simultaneous use of self-report and observer-rating scales is becoming more common in family therapy research. However, there is a lack of consensus among family researchers about how to conjointly interpret data from self-report and observer-rating assessment instruments. In particular, family researchers disagree about whether reports from family members and observers tap similar or fundamentally different aspects of family reality. In this study, I examined Olson's (1977; 1985) assertion that “insider” and “outsider” perspectives represent qualitatively different domains which should both be examined in order to get a complete clinical view of family functioning. Specifically, I analyzed data from David Olson's battery of assessment instruments for the Circumplex Model which were used to assess the functioning of 70 couples from both the insider and outsider perspectives. Using confirmatory factor analysis, canonical correlation, and partial correlation, I obtained mixed but mostly negative support for the validity of the Circumplex Model as well as the utility of Olson's insider/outsider framework. Implications of this study for multi-perspective family assessment, the Circumplex Model, as well as the use of structural equation modeling in family research are discussed.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Thomas, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology|Social work|Social research
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.