Examines the data from the Osmond (1984), Acock and Edwards (1982), and Scanzoni (1979a, 1979b) debates concerning female status attainment. Concludes that substantive conclusions are only as valid as the data on which they are based. (LLL)

Notes that family researchers are increasingly using panel data to investigate family processes. To aid family researchers in understanding panel analysis, focuses on two panel analysis strategies--structural equation model techniques and methods of event history analysis. Several additional methods of analyzing panel data are also briefly…

Asserts that, despite its growing popularity, there still exists confusion about the nature and proper use of logistic regression in family studies. Presents nontechnical discussion of logistic regression, with illustrations and comparisons to better-known procedures. Concludes that logistic regression can be powerful statistical procedure when…

Briefly describes core ideas behind LISREL (linear structural relationship) approach for studying structural models. Addresses some common issues with which family investigators deal, focusing on problems that researchers often face; questions they raise; and decisions they need to make in the process of model specification, estimation,…

Reviews application of causal modeling in family research. Discusses uses of and critics' views of causal modeling to explain reasons for controversial position of causal modeling in social sciences. Reviews requirements for effectively implementing causal modeling strategy, commenting on some attempts of family researchers to use it. Includes…

Interaction data from 96 married couples in which the husband was an alcoholic, depressive, or normal control were coded with Marital Interaction Coding System and subjected to multidimensional scaling, principle components analysis, and transitional probability analyses. Resulting solutions indicated several clusters common across methods and…

Bytheway discusses the problems of representation and sampling methodology found in the Three Generation Family Study directed by Hill at the University of Minnesota. Hill responds to this criticism and challenges Bytheway to provide a better sampling design. (Author/HLM)

Used confluence model scores computed for 1,063 Youth in Transition study respondents to examine relation between family configuration and family interaction and contribution of both to mental development. Confluence model scores predicted intellectual ability as measured by Quicktest score moderately well; family interaction variables mediated…

With the development of refined theory and increased measurement sophistication in family research, multidimensional concepts and multiple indicators are appearing in the literature. This paper provides a nonmathematical introduction to canonical correlation analysis and three empirical examples that demonstrate the technique's applicability in…

Dealing with data from multiple family members presents problems for researchers, as many of the techniques available for dealing with such data are problematic, and there is no way that is unique to each family. Proposes and gives an example of the use of Q factor analysis as a means of combining data from multiple family members in a unique way…

The author discusses a common error in marriage research, i.e. use of a control group. Single scores which are correlated require no randomized control group. Two arrays of scores which are correlated generally require a randomized control group. (Author/HMV)

Presentation of quantitative research on the family often suffers from a tendency to interpret findings on a statistical rather than substantive basis. Advocates the use of data analysis that lends itself to an intuitive understanding of the nature of the findings, the strength of the association, and the import of the result. (JPS)

Examines in 13 articles, three areas of change in family research methodology. Considers major determinants of change in the subject matter of family studies. Addresses the central measurement problem of family studies, i.e., relationships. Presents illustrative examples of the advancement of research technologies in family studies. (RC)