This study demonstrates how to use a recently developed statistical method, Latent Growth Model (LGM), to conduct longitudinal studies on health status development from both an intra- and inter-individual perspective. In growth modeling, initial status and change of health are conceptualized as random coefficients and reconceptualized as growth factors in a structural equation modeling framework. As such, we are able to test the form of health status development, individual differences in the trajectory, and examine the covariates that influence both the initial status and change of health status over time. General mental health and physical functioning measured by the Medical Outcome Study SF-36 are used as multiple outcome measures in the study. Data are obtained from a sample of 439 crack-cocaine users interviewed at four consecutive time points with a 6-month interval in a natural history study in Dayton, Ohio.
Learning Objectives: How to apply a recently developed statistical method, Latent Growth Model (LGM), to conducting longitudinal study on health status development
Keywords: Statistics, Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.