Latent Growth Curve Analysis

A latent growth curve model is a form of a structural equation model (SEM). Latent growth curves provide a flexible framework for modeling longitudinal data. Within this approach, it is possible to model both linear and non-linear growth curves with unique covariance structures. This methodology also allows for multiple growth curves to be modeled simultaneously, allowing researchers to test whether the growth of one variables is correlated with the growth of another variable. Having some prior knowledge on structural equation models concepts, such as path models, mediation, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural regression models, is useful. Examples will be conducted using the lavaan package in R.