Modeling the Processes of Development via Latent Variable Growth Curve Methodology

Recent advances in statistical methodology, in particular, latent growth modeling, allow for the testing of complex models regarding developmental trends from both an inter- and intraindividual perspective. An example application of latent growth curve methodology, analyzing the effects of gender and parental monitoring on developmental change in adolescent alcohol consumption, is presented. Furthermore, the analyses are conducted within a cohort-sequential design, incorporating an approach to the analysis of missing data due to attrition. Findings are discussed with particular reference to the utility of latent growth curve models for assessing developmental processes at both the inter-and intraindividual level across a variety of behavioral domains.