Author:
Da Silva Ramos Sara,Rickard Liow Susan J.
Abstract
Abstract
Discriminant function analysis (DFA) is a data‐reduction technique used to make decisions about group membership, typically in naturally occurring groups. It can answer theoretical questions but has proved especially useful in applied research. In this chapter we provide an overview of DFA, describe two types of DFA investigation, its three main procedures, and discuss DFA's potential and its limitations. We then explain the steps needed for interpreting DFA results, before concluding with two recent examples of the use of DFA as a statistical tool in psycholinguistic research.