Group Differences in Aptitude Factor Structure on the ASVAB

Abstract

Comparisons of aptitude factor structures were made in large, nationally representative samples of young Black, White, and Hispanic men and women who took the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Confirmatory factor techniques imposing statistical constraints tested if the loadings of the tests were the same for sex and ethnic groups on a hierarchical general cognitive ability (g) factor and three residualized lower order factors, which included Verbal/Math, Technical Knowledge, and Speed. Tests that reflected content common in high school curricula, such as verbal and math, showed little sex or ethnic differences. The most outstanding difference was found between men and women on the loading of the Electronics Information test on g and on the lower order Technical Knowledge factor. In both cases, the loading was almost zero for females and moderate for males. Patterns in high school course enrollment by sex suggested the reason for the differences. Women are much less likely to enroll in courses emphasizing technical knowledge.