Structural equation modeling for conducting tests of differences in multiple means.

Multivariate methods for analyzing group differences in means on dependent variables include multivariate analysis of variance, discriminant analysis, and multivariate analysis of factor means. To make appropriate choices among these methods, researchers should understand the statistical models underlying them. We present these models using path diagrams within a structural equation modeling framework. Results for the different methods are presented for an example concerning coping with asthma.