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Activity Number: 350
Type: Contributed
Date/Time: Tuesday, July 31, 2012 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
Sponsor: Section on Survey Research Methods
Abstract - #305186
Title: Weak Identifiability in Latent Class Analysis
Author(s): Marcus Berzofsky*+ and Paul P Biemer
Companies: RTI International and RTI International/The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Address: 3040 Cornwallis Road, RTP, NC, 27709, United States
Keywords: Latent class analysis (LCA) ; weak identifiability ; Maximum likelihood estimation
Abstract:

Model identifiability requires a model likelihood with a single global maximum. The ability to find unique parameter estimates for latent class models depends on such identifiability. Weak identifiability occurs when there are regions of the likelihood that are "flat." In that case, a unique global maximum may exist, but so do many local maxima that provide nearly the same value of the likelihood. In this case, it can be very difficult to find the MLEs, which can lead to erroneous model estimates and conclusions. An important cause of weak identifiability is a violation in one of the model assumptions (e.g., local dependence). This research assesses the likelihood of having a weakly identifiable model based on the type and severity of assumption violation using a simulation approach. It also provides suggestions on how to detect weak identifiability and offers some approaches for avoidin


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