Analysing Categorical Data In Spss

Categorical Data Analysis with SAS and SPSS Applications

Using SPSS Syntax

SPSS syntax is the command language used by SPSS to carry out all of its commands and functions. In this book, Jacqueline Collier introduces the use of syntax to those who have not used it before, or who are taking their first steps in using syntax. Without requiring any knowledge of programming, the text outlines: - how to become familiar with the syntax commands; - how to create and manage the SPSS journal and syntax files; - and how to use them throughout the data entry, management and analysis process. Collier covers all aspects of data management from data entry through to data analysis, including managing the errors and the error messages created by SPSS. Syntax commands are clearly explained and the value of syntax is demonstrated through examples. This book also supports the use of SPSS syntax alongside the usual button and menu-driven graphical interface (GIF) using the two methods together, in a complementary way. The book is written in such a way as to enable you to pick and choose how much you rely on one method over the other, encouraging you to use them side-by-side, with a gradual increase in use of syntax as your knowledge, skills and confidence develop. This book is ideal for all those carrying out quantitative research in the health and social sciences who can benefit from SPSS syntax′s capacity to save time, reduce errors and allow a data audit trail.

The SAGE Handbook of Quantitative Methodology for the Social Sciences

Click ′Additional Materials′ for downloadable samples"The 24 chapters in this Handbook span a wide range of topics, presenting the latest quantitative developments in scaling theory, measurement, categorical data analysis, multilevel models, latent variable models, and foundational issues. Each chapter reviews the historical context for the topic and then describes current work, including illustrative examples where appropriate. The level of presentation throughout the book is detailed enough to convey genuine understanding without overwhelming the reader with technical material. Ample references are given for readers who wish to pursue topics in more detail. The book will appeal to both researchers who wish to update their knowledge of specific quantitative methods, and students who wish to have an integrated survey of state-of- the-art quantitative methods."--Roger E. Millsap, Arizona State University"This handbook discusses important methodological tools and topics in quantitative methodology in easy to understand language. It is an exhaustive review of past and recent advances in each topic combined with a detailed discussion of examples and graphical illustrations. It will be an essential reference for social science researchers as an introduction to methods and quantitative concepts of great use."--Irini Moustaki, London School of Economics, U.K. "David Kaplan and SAGE Publications are to be congratulated on the development of a new handbook on quantitative methods for the social sciences. The Handbook is more than a set of methodologies, it is a journey. This methodological journey allows the reader to experience scaling, tests and measurement, and statistical methodologies applied to categorical, multilevel, and latent variables. The journey concludes with a number of philosophical issues of interest to researchers in the social sciences. The new Handbook is a must purchase."--Neil H. Timm, University of PittsburghThe SAGE Handbook of Quantitative Methodology for the Social Sciences is the definitive reference for teachers, students, and researchers of quantitative methods in the social sciences, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the major techniques used in the field. The contributors, top methodologists and researchers, have written about their areas of expertise in ways that convey the utility of their respective techniques, but, where appropriate, they also offer a fair critique of these techniques. Relevance to real-world problems in the social sciences is an essential ingredient of each chapter and makes this an invaluable resource. The handbook is divided into six sections: * Scaling* Testing and Measurement* Models for Categorical Data* Models for Multilevel Data* Models for Latent Variables* Foundational Issues These sections, comprising twenty-four chapters, address topics in scaling and measurement, advances in statistical modeling methodologies, and broad philosophical themes and foundational issues that transcend many of the quantitative methodologies covered in the book. The Handbook is indispensable to the teaching, study, and research of quantitative methods and will enable readers to develop a level of understanding of statistical techniques commensurate with the most recent, state-of-the-art, theoretical developments in the field. It provides the foundations for quantitative research, with cutting-edge insights on the effectiveness of each method, depending on the data and distinct research situation.