Model Selection of Nested and Non-Nested Item Response Models Using Vuong Tests

Abstract

In this paper, we apply Vuong’s general approach of model selection to the comparison of nested and non-nested unidimensional and multidimensional item response theory (IRT) models. Vuong’s approach of model selection is useful because it allows for formal statistical tests of both nested and non-nested models. However, only the test of non-nested models has been applied in the context of IRT models to date. After summarizing the statistical theory underlying the tests, we investigate the performance of all three distinct Vuong tests in the context of IRT models using simulation studies and real data. In the non-nested case we observed that the tests can reliably distinguish between the graded response model and the generalized partial credit model. In the nested case, we observed that the tests typically perform as well as or sometimes better than the traditional likelihood ratio test. Based on these results, we argue that Vuong’s approach provides a useful set of tools for researchers and practitioners to effectively compare competing nested and non-nested IRT models.     

Undermining the axiological solution to divine hiddenness

Lougheed (Ratio 31:331–341, 2018) argues that a possible solution to the problem of divine hiddenness is that God hides in order to increase the axiological value of the world. In a world where God exists, the goods associated with theism necessarily obtain. But Lougheed also claims that in such a world it’s possible to experience the goods of atheism, even if they don’t actually obtain. This is what makes a world with a hidden God more valuable than a world where God is unhidden (where it’s impossible to experience atheistic goods), and also more valuable than an atheistic world with no God (and hence no theistic goods). We show that Lougheed never considers the comparison between a world where God hides and an atheistic world. We argue that it’s possible for a person to experience theistic goods in a world where God does not exist, a possibility Lougheed never considers. If this is right it undermines his axiological solution to divine hiddenness. We conclude by showing how our discussion of the axiology of theism connects to the existential question of whether God exists; that is, we show that the axiological question is (partly) dependent on the existential question.

     

Spinoza's PSR as a Principle of Clear and Distinct Representation

It is argued first, that Spinoza's Principle of Sufficient Reason (PSR) is best seen as an auxiliary premise and not as an axiom of the Ethics; second, that Spinoza held the PSR to be a self‐evident truth that indicates a necessary condition for clearly and distinctly representing the existence or non‐existence of a thing; and third, that this interpretation of Spinoza's PSR explains the near absence of the PSR within the demonstrations of the Ethics as well as the importance of the principle in Spinoza's thought.     

Some sociopsychological factors in attempted suicide among urban black males.

This study tests three hypotheses relating to suicidal behavior among urban black males: that black consciousness and group cohesiveness will be lower and depression will be higher. Inner-city, young adult black males with a suicide attempt in the last 6 months, and matched controls were examined. Hypothesis was one supported; the other two received partial support. The validity of the theory of black self-hatred as the basic cause of suicidal behavior among blacks is questioned. Atwo-factor theory of suicide, focusing on forces moving the person away from suicide toward positive subgroup ties, is proposed.     

The Role of Contiguity in Free-Operant Unsignaled Delay of Positive Reinforcement: A Brief Review

The Psychological Record - The temporal contiguity between responses and consequences is an important variable in operant conditioning. This paper examines a selected portion of the empirical...