Latent Markov Models for Longitudinal Data

Exploring the theory and applications of latent Markov modeling in a common conceptual framework, this book presents a nontechnical overview of latent Markov models and their potential in socio-economic applications. The statistical approach of the text emphasizes inference and the use of models in applications. The book first describes the latent Markov model proposed by Wiggins, taking into account other models in the field, such as latent transition analysis and hidden Markov analysis. The authors then lead readers to the possibility of implementing, using, and calibrating the latest developments. They also provide ad hoc MATLABA(R) routines for fitting the proposed models.