Application of Discriminant Function Analysis

Discriminant function analysis, also known as discriminant analysis (DA), is used to classify a subject into one of the two groups on the basis of some independent traits. This chapter discusses the details of DA and the procedure of using SPSS in getting the solution. In discriminant analysis, a discriminant function is used to classify an individual or cases into two categories. If the function is effective for a set of data, the percentage of correct classification of cases in the classification table increases. The terminologies involved in it are explained. The chapter then discusses the steps involved in using SPSS for DA teaches how to to apply discriminant analysis in explorative studies. The procedure of developing discriminant function, the power of discriminant model in a study, and writing the results of DA in standard format are also explained.