Workshop: Studying Patterns of Behavior Using Growth Curve and Group Based Trajectory Models

Session Submission Type: Workshop

Abstract

Criminologist often study patterns of behavior or changes in behavior over time. For example, the age-crime curve and criminal careers have fascinated criminologists for decades. However, there are challenges in determining the correct modeling strategy for such questions. As a result, many statistical models have been utilized from simple fixed effect panel models that control for individual heterogeneity to more complex approaches that attempt to model rather than control for differences. In this workshop, we will study two of the more popular methods used for assessing criminal offending patterns over time: Standard Growth Curve Modeling and Group Trajectory Modeling. The underlying assumptions of each type of model will be covered in detail, which should illuminate the reasons why one might select one approach over the other in a given analysis. The course will incorporate hands-on examples of both approaches in Stata with a sample data set, and example coding provided.

Sub Unit

• Workshops

Instructor

• Megan Kurlychek, University at Albany, SUNY