In the factor analysis literature, much attention has
been given to the issue of sample size. It is widely
understood that the use of larger samples in applications
of factor analysis tends to provide results such
that sample factor loadings are more precise estimates
of population loadings and are also more stable, or
les s variable, across repeated sampling. Despite general
agreement on this matter, there is considerable
di'/ergence of opinion and evidence about the question
of how large a sample is necessary to adequately
acnieve these objectives. Recommendations and findings
about this issue are diverse and often contradictory.
The objectives of this article are to provide a