Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses of the Motivation Assessment Scale and Resident Choice Assessment Scale

Abstract

The Motivation Assessment Scale (MAS) and Resident Choice Assessment Scale (RCAS) are commonly used to evaluate people with severe developmental disabilities. However, the factor structure of these scales has not been subjected to confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). We analyzed 335 MAS administrations via CFA and 122 RCAS administrations via exploratory factor analysis and CFA. The original factor structure of the MAS was not supported, though an alternative model that included omission of the sensory reinforcement function was supported. Exploratory factor analysis of the RCAS revealed one- and two-factor structures, but the two-factor model was not supported via CFA. Instead, a limited single factor that included several core items was supported. Implications for the revision and use of these scales are discussed.