Uncovering multiple pathways to substance use: A comparison of methods for identifying population subgroups

Lisa Dierker, Jennifer Rose, Xianming Tan, Runze Li

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper describes and compares a selection of available modeling techniques for identifying homogeneous population subgroups in the interest of informing targeted substance use intervention. We present a nontechnical review of the common and unique features of three methods: (a) trajectory analysis, (b) functional hierarchical linear modeling (FHLM), and (c) decision tree methods. Differences among the techniques are described, including required data features, strengths and limitations in terms of the flexibility with which outcomes and predictors can be modeled, and the potential of each technique for helping to inform the selection of targets and timing of substance intervention programs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)333-348
Number of pages16
JournalJournal of Primary Prevention
Volume31
Issue number5-6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2010

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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