Using Cross-Lagged Panel Models for Mechanisms of ChangeResearch: An Introduction

Webinar by Fredrik Falkenström (Linköping University) Abstract: The introduction of novel methodologies in the past decade has advanced research on mechanisms of change. Cross-Lagged Panel Models allow session-by-session dynamic predictions of change in outcome measures from candidate mechanisms. This is crucial given that the effect of mechanisms on outcome inherently unfolds over time in therapy. These models also enable preliminary casual inferences, which can guide the development and effectivization of interventions that target mechanisms of change. The webinar will introduce the basic concepts of cross-lagged panel models, comparing these models with widely used statistical methods such as multiple regression and multilevel modeling, and the interpretation of model results and clinical implications. Participants will become familiar with the basic concepts of cross-lagged models and their potential uses in psychotherapy research. They will be able to interpret model results and evaluate results published in scientific journals.