Geometric vector orthogonal rotation method in multiple-factor analysis

Abstract

An objective method for the orthogonal rotation of factors which gives results closer to the graphic method is proposed. First, the fact that the varimax method does not always satisfy simple-structure criteria, e.g., the positive manifold and the level contributions of all factors, is pointed out. Next, the principles of our method which are based on “geometric vector” are discussed, and the computational procedures for this method are explained using Harman and Holzinger's eight physical variables. Finally, six numerical examples by our method are presented, and it is shown that they are very close to the factors obtained from empirical studies both in values and in signs.