Scalogram analysis is a psychometric technique that can be used to infer the order of initiation of substance use, in a model that use of any substance implies use of all preceding substances. If responses follow a particular consistent pattern, scalogram analyses infers an underlying order of initiation. A counterexample is presented in which there is a consistent order of initiation and responses follow the prescribed pattern. However, the order inferred by scalogram analysis is the opposite of the actual order. Alternative models, which relax the assumption that order implies use of all preceding substances, are suggested.
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