On the Use of Polynomial Regression Equations As An Alternative to Difference Scores in Organizational Research
- 1 December 1993
- journal article
- Published by Academy of Management in The Academy of Management Journal
- Vol. 36 (6) , 1577-1613
- https://doi.org/10.5465/256822
Abstract
For decades, difference scores have been widely used in studies of congruence in organizational research. Although methodological problems with difference scores are well known, few viable alternatives have been proposed. One alternative involves the use of polynomial regression equations, which permit direct tests of the relationships difference scores are intended to represent. Unfortunately, coefficients from polynomial regression equations are often difficult to interpret. We used response surface methodology to develop an interpretive framework and illustrate it using data from a well-known person-environment study. Several important findings not reported in the original study emerged.Keywords
This publication has 51 references indexed in Scilit:
- An empirical comparison of self-report and discrepancy measures of goal commitment.Journal of Applied Psychology, 1991
- REFERENT SELECTION IN DETERMINING EQUITY PERCEPTIONS: DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS ON BEHAVIORAL AND ATTITUDINAL OUTCOMESPersonnel Psychology, 1987
- Relations between job facet comparisons and employee reactionsOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 1986
- The measurement of role variables: Exploratory examination of a new approachOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 1985
- Difference score measures of organizational behavior variables: A critiqueOrganizational Behavior and Human Performance, 1981
- The desire for an enriched job as a moderator of the enrichment—satisfaction relationshipOrganizational Behavior and Human Performance, 1980
- Universalistic and Contingency Predictions of Employee Satisfaction and ConflictAdministrative Science Quarterly, 1979
- Testing multiplicative models does not require ratio scalesOrganizational Behavior and Human Performance, 1979
- Organizational equity perceptions, employee job satisfaction, and departmental absence and turnover ratesOrganizational Behavior and Human Performance, 1979
- Job Demands, Job Decision Latitude, and Mental Strain: Implications for Job RedesignAdministrative Science Quarterly, 1979