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I've seen some research study using average scales of a collective measurements as an observed variable for a latent variable. I was planning to use the same method. Is that ok for SEM?

To explain clearly, I currently have 66 measurements. These measurements are expected to be a member of 19 square boxes. So, instead of using the direct measurements to be loaded with Motivation, Opportunity, Ability, and Success, can I use average scales for the square boxes to be observed variables of the construct?

For example:

3 measurements (5-Likert scale) are expected to be a member of the first white square box. The average scale from the 3 measurements is 4.2. Can I use 4.2 as an observed variable for the "Motivation" construct?

I am afraid that if I don't use the average scales, I may end up analyzing complex third order components without seeing any good coefficient and/or good load factors.

Thank you,

Chatchai

Hi,

The average scale only used in SPSS. By contrast, in the PLS-SEM you must use any indicators to measure the construct.

Regards,