Application of a Structure Coefficient Rule of Thumb For Two-Group Descriptive Discriminant Analysis

Abstract

This simulation study considered the rule of thumb as noted in Pedhazur (1997) for judging the usefulness of continuous (in a previous MANOVA, dependent) variables at determining group separation in descriptive discriminant analysis; namely, that a structure coefficient value equal to or greater than .3 identifies a useful continuous variable. No research to date has tested this rule. Results indicate that the rule is generally useful for identifying variables with medium to large effects but not small effects.