Analyzing problem-behavior trajectories can be difficult. The data are generally categorical and often quite skewed, violating distributional assumptions of standard normal-theory statistical models. In this article, the authors present several currently available modeling options, all of which make appropriate distributional assumptions for the…

Used analysis of covariance structures to test for the equivalence of a well-known measuring instrument across two culturally diverse groups, exploring three possible determinants of the resulting nonvariance. Example data comprised item responses to the four nonacademic subscales of the Self Description Questionnaire for Australian and Nigerian…

Presents a new approach that extends conventional random coefficient growth models to incorporate a categorical latent trajectory variable representing latent classes or mixtures. Provides a didactic example of this new methodology using adolescent alcohol use data and discusses the method as a tool for mapping hypotheses of development onto…

The purposes of this research brief were to examine (a) whether youth reports of neighborhood qualities were significantly related to census data at the block group, measuring the same structural qualities and (b) whether the structural qualities were related to youth development either directly or indirectly through youth perceptions. Data were…

Using an approach to the analysis of missing data, this study investigated developmental trends in alcohol, marijuana, and cigarette use among 750 adolescents across 5 years using multiple-group latent growth modeling. Latent variable structural equation modeling and missing data approaches to studying developmental change are explored. (SLD)

Data from the National Youth Study of 1976 are analyzed to explore the relations between conventional beliefs and attitudes and delinquent behavior. Using a stage-state analysis in addition to structural-equation models reveals aspects of the relation that are not apparent from structural equations alone. (SLD)

Posits a multidimensional measurement theory of adolescent drug involvement and tests its measurement properties as captured in the Drug Involvement Scale for Adolescents (DISA). Results attest to the reliability, validity, and brevity (22 indicators constructed from 29 items) of this composite index. Recommends further validation of the DISA.…