Successive Unfolding of Family Preferences

Abstract

A technique to scale preferences in relation to an externally derived stimulus configuration, called Successive Unfolding, is described. Four steps are involved: (1) computing a matrix of inter-stimulus distances; (2) using ALSCAL to obtain a stimulus configuration from the matrix of distances; (3) using Carroll's regression procedure to solve for subject ideal points; and (4) using this starting con figuration to scale preference rank orders in ALSCAL. The technique is used to analyze family preference data. Results suggest that a number preference, a sex preference, and a balance pref erence are the components contributing to overall family preferences. Race and sex differences are portrayed by locating subject ideal points along these dimensions. Finally, the relationship of Suc cessive Unfolding to previous techniques for mea suring family preferences is discussed, and the de cision-making process modeled by Successive Un folding is outlined.