Incremental Fit Index Changes for Nested Structural Equation Models.

The assessment of structural equation model fit is quite critical for applications with finite samples. After reviewing the multiple fit indices in structural equation models, we present evidence on their behavior in simulation studies where sample size, estimation method, and model misspecification varies. Two sampling studies are reported with the first consisting of a confirmatory factor analysis model with a known population while the second utilizes an empirical data set whose population is only approximately known. Implications for the use of fit indices in the assessment of model fit are discussed.