Longitudinal data is often of utmost importance to developmental scientists. Analyzing longitudinal data not only allows us to better understand how young people develop, but also to better comprehend within-person processes controlling for between-person differences. In this way, longitudinal data can help distinguish developmental processes from individual differences. Furthermore, longitudinal data can inform us about individual differences in developmental processes. Therefore, applying techniques to analyze longitudinal data is a necessary skill for researchers studying development and developmental processes.
In this workshop, you will acquire hands-on knowledge on conducting advanced SEM analyses to study developmental order and processes controlling for individual differences (Random-Intercept Cross Lagged Panel Models), growth (Latent Growth Curve Models), and individual differences in developmental processes (Latent Class Growth Analysis/Growth Mixture Models). We will use both Mplus and R. In light of recent critical discourses, we will discuss between-person and within-person models, and how to choose the right analyses for your research questions. We will further provide a glimpse into the modelling of intense longitudinal data (e.g., DSEM).
This workshop is aimed at researchers who want to extend their knowledge about SEM modelling techniques, and learn how to use these models in their own analyses. Participants should be familiar with basic SEM models (e.g., path analysis, growth models) and should have experience with running analyses in Mplus and/or R. To follow the course and practical exercises, at least one of these programs should be installed on your computer.
Webinar speakers
Dr. Stefanos Mastrotheodoros is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Youth and Family, at Utrecht University, the Netherlands, and an Assistant Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Crete. His main research interests include changes in parent-adolescent relationships, adolescent development, and longitudinal modelling. He is also interested in investigating how changes in DNA methylation might play a role in adolescent psychosocial development.
Dr. Beatrice Bobba is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Psychology at University of Bologna, Italy. She has obtained a PhD in Social Psychology with a dissertation examining the development and socio-contextual correlates of ethnic prejudice among ethnic majority adolescents. In her current research, she builds upon her previous work focusing on the interplay between intergroup experiences and identity processes. She is well versed in advanced longitudinal analyses which she applies to tackle complex interpersonal and intergroup phenomena in adolescence.
