Dyadic Data Analysis: Models and Methods for the Study of Couples

Instructor(s):

• Deborah A. Kashy, Psychology, Michigan State University

The National Center for Marriage Research (NCMR) will sponsor a summer workshop that focuses on the dyad. The dyad—whether a dating or marital relationship, a friendship, or even the relationship between parents and children—is the fundamental unit of interpersonal interaction. This workshop—composed of lecture material and hands-on analyses-- will provide an introduction to the analysis of both cross-sectional and longitudinal dyadic data.

The first day will be an overview of issues unique to dyadic analyses. Topics covered will include data management and an introduction to multilevel modeling (both generally and as it applies to the dyadic case). The second day will focus on estimating actor and partner effects using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. Users will apply this model to distinguishable and indistinguishable dyads, and instructors will discuss how to incorporate interactions between actor and partner effects into analyses. On the third day, over-time models of dyadic data, including growth curve models, lagged models, and over-time actor-partner models will be covered.

The course is designed for faculty and professionals as well as for advanced graduate students in the social sciences who are comfortable with data analysis software (i.e. SPSS, SAS) and the use of multiple regression. Participants from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Applicants need to include a one-page statement of their research interests and curriculum vitae. Graduate students require a letter of support from their faculty advisor. Supporting materials can be submitted electronically through the Summer Program registration portal on each applicant’s Summer Program page.

Deadline: Applications are due on Friday May 1, 2009

Stipend: The NCMR will offer travel stipends for a limited number of students ($750 maximum) to attend the class.

Dates:  June 15-17 

Fee:  There will be no tuition fees for accepted participants.

This course is limited to 20 participants.