S5E10 Nonlinear Latent Growth Curve Models (Taylor's Version)

This podcast explores the intricacies of nonlinear growth modeling, delving into topics such as the limitations of linear approximations, distinctions between linear and nonlinear models, the selection of appropriate growth models, and the use of specialized statistical techniques like polynomial functions, piecewise linear models, and Taylor series approximations to capture nonlinear trajectories in data. The speakers emphasize the importance of carefully considering the shape of the growth curve and the research question at hand when selecting a growth model and discuss the strengths and limitations of different modeling approaches. They also address challenges in interpretation and prediction, highlighting the need for further theoretical and methodological developments in the field.