On the similarity between exchangeable profiles: A psychometric model, analytic strategy, and empirical illustration

Analyses of profile similarity are widespread in personality psychology, but their apparent simplicity masks difficult psychometric and statistical issues. We present a psychometric framework that addresses an important challenge (i.e., profile normativeness) in examinations of dyadic exchangeable profiles. In addition, we present an analytic strategy accounting for non-independence that often arises in analyses of profile similarity, facilitating integrated examinations of variables at dyadic and individual levels. An empirical analysis of personality similarity and relationship quality demonstrates that the model and analytic strategy can reveal novel psychological insights. These are important advances, as previous work has ignored exchangeable profiles and has failed to present an integrated psychometric and statistical framework for profile similarity.

► Study of profile similarity in exchangeable profiles raises two important problems.
► Presents a psychometric framework applicable to exchangeable profiles.
► Presents analytic strategy to handle non-independence with exchangeable profiles.
► Applies the framework and strategy to personality similarity and various outcomes.
► Components of similarity and normativeness have relational and personal associations.