I have a SEM study where some variables were collected with a 7-points scale, while others with a 5-point. Is there any literature that I can look at? or any opinion? Thanks.
From my understanding, this shouldn't be a problem at all. With SEM you are essentially looking at covariances between variables. To this end, their absolute means as determined by the number of response options do not matter.
Yes, it is possible to use both a 5-point Likert scale and a 7-point Likert scale simultaneously in a structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis, but it is important to consider the implications of doing so.
The main concern is that Likert scales with different numbers of points may have different measurement properties, such as different reliabilities and validities, which could affect the overall results of the analysis. Therefore, it is important to consider the psychometric properties of the scales and to examine the data for any potential issues such as floor or ceiling effects.
Additionally, if you're going to use scales with different number of points in SEM, it is important to ensure that the scales are transformed or standardized in some way to make them comparable.
It is always recommended to consult a statistician or SEM expert when working with Likert scale data in SEM, as it is a complex analysis.
I agree with the answers above. Since the Likert scale is synthetic, linear scale, re-scaling is possible. The conversions: 5-PT SCORE x 7/5 and 7-PT SCORE x 5/7 do not defeat the purpose of evaluating the degree of the phenomenon of interest.
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