Latent Transition Analysis: An Unrestricted Higher-Order Latent Variable

• In Event: New Twists on Latent Transition Analysis: Unique Adaptations and Applications

Abstract

This paper is an advanced application of latent transition analysis (LTA) examining the peer victimization experiences of approximately 1300 urban, public school students across the 3 middle school years. We extend the conventional LTA model to simultaneously include time varying covariates with time varying effects as well as distal outcome that is related to change trajectories. In addition, in this study we use a higher-order latent class variable to model heterogeneity in transitions. This novel approach is an adaptation of the more commonly used Mover-Stayer model where the restrictions on the higher order latent class variable are relaxed. This provides a way to understand the common transitional patterns that occur. Further, we link these patterns to antecedents and long term consequences. We estimate this model using the new three-step method.
We will highlight key modeling steps that can be used in the application of the LTA model to help guarantee correct model specification. We will highlight the model building process and the three-step specification. The results of the analyses yielded three victim classes based on victimization degree (victimized, sometimes victimized, nonvictimized). LTA indicated that when students transitioned between victimization classes, they were most likely to transition from a more victimized group into one of the less victimized groups. Further, results indicated that students who experience any sort of victimization, compared to those who do not, felt less safe at school, more socially anxious, and more depressed during certain middle school years. The higher-order variable identified three key patterns: those who remain nonvictimized across middle school, those who start high and transition into lower victimized classes, and small group students who remain victimized throughout middle school. Findings indicate that those who were chronically victimized reported more physical health problems and more social worries once in high school.

Authors

• Karen L. Nylund-Gibson, University of California - Santa Barbara

• Adrienne Nishina, University of California - Davis

• Amy Bellmore, University of Wisconsin - Madison