Factor structure of the levels of attribution and change (LAC) scale in samples of psychotherapists and smokers

Investigated the factor structure of the Levels of Attribution and Change (LAC) Scale, a 60-item, Likert-format instrument designed to assess the levels and loci of causal attributions about a problem behavior. Principal component analyses were performed on two samples, 194 adult smokers and 140 professional psychotherapists. In both cases, nine distinct and interpretable components were retained, which accounted for 63% and 68% of the total variance, respectively. Coefficients of congruence indicated that the two component patterns were quite similar. Item cross-classification revealed that the nine components closely resemble the 10 theoretical scales, with 2 scales (Familial Conflicts, Interpersonal Conflicts) represented by one component. Estimates of internal consistency averaged .84 and .87 for the two samples. The LAC theoretical scales and the scoring system have considerable empirical justification. The LAC Scale appears to be an internally consistent, multidimensional inventory with a robust factor structure. (March 1984)