Discrete factor analysis

Abstract

In this paper, we present a method for factor analysis of discrete data. This is accomplished by fitting a dependent Poisson model with a factor structure. To be able to analyze ordinal data, we also consider a truncated Poisson distribution. We try to find the model with the lowest AIC by employing a forward selection procedure. The probability to find the correct model is investigated in a simulation study. Moreover, we heuristically derive the corresponding asymptotic probabilities. An empirical study is also included.