Confirmatory factor analysis of the cognitive failures questionnaire: evidence for dimensionality and construct validity

The Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ) is a measure of everyday task failures that individuals are normally capable of completing. Prior studies have attempted to gauge the dimensionality of the measure using exploratory techniques, but not a confirmatory approach. Over two studies, the dimensionality of the CFQ was examined using structural equation modeling by comparing all previously reported factor models. Additionally, construct validity was obtained in study 2 by beginning to delineate a nomological network. It was found that a four factor solution consistently provided better fit and was more theoretically related to original conceptualization of the construct. Results of the nomological network also provided support for the four factors of the CFQ by demonstrating convergence with similar constructs (e.g., neuroticism) and divergence with dissimilar constructs (e.g., attention). Implications, limitations, and future research ideas are discussed.