Age vs. Cohort: Separate but Equal?

• In Event: Modeling and Analytical Issues

Abstract

When conducting research using cohort data, scholars have the option to examine age as a continuous variable or use age-based cohort assignment. Researchers have demonstrated that using cohorts is appropriate when the cohort members display different outcome trajectories (Sullivan, 2012). Furthermore, there are instances when using age may mask these cohort differences. Nevertheless, age as a continuous variable may be more appropriate when there are no appreciable cohort differences (Lauritsen, 1998). In order to address the potential variation in outcomes when using cohort versus age we employ hierarchical linear modeling using data from three cohorts (9, 12, and 15) from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods study to examine outcome differences in the effect of age/cohort on violence among youths ages 9-19.

Authors

• Maria Lobo Antunes, Towson University

• Eileen M. Ahlin, Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg