Mechanisms of family formation: an application of Hidden Markov Models to a life course process

TY - JOUR

T1 - Mechanisms of family formation: an application of Hidden Markov Models to a life course process

AU - Han, Y.

AU - Liefbroer, A.C.

AU - Elzinga, C.

PY - 2020/3

Y1 - 2020/3

N2 - Life courses consist of complex patterns of correlated events and spells. The nature and strength of these correlations is known to depend on both micro- and macro- covariates. Life-course models such as event-history analysis and sequence analysis are not well equipped to deal with the processual and latent character of the decision- making process. We argue that Hidden Markov Models satisfy the requirements of a life course model. To illustrate their usefulness, this study will use Hidden Markov chains to model trajectories of family formation. We used data from the Generations and Gender Programme to estimate Hidden Markov Models. The results show the potential of this approach to unravel the mechanisms underlying life-course decision making and how these processes differ both by gender and education.

AB - Life courses consist of complex patterns of correlated events and spells. The nature and strength of these correlations is known to depend on both micro- and macro- covariates. Life-course models such as event-history analysis and sequence analysis are not well equipped to deal with the processual and latent character of the decision- making process. We argue that Hidden Markov Models satisfy the requirements of a life course model. To illustrate their usefulness, this study will use Hidden Markov chains to model trajectories of family formation. We used data from the Generations and Gender Programme to estimate Hidden Markov Models. The results show the potential of this approach to unravel the mechanisms underlying life-course decision making and how these processes differ both by gender and education.

KW - Mechanisms

KW - family formation

U2 - 10.1016/j.alcr.2019.03.001

DO - 10.1016/j.alcr.2019.03.001

M3 - Article

SN - 1040-2608

VL - 43

JO - Advances in Life Course Research

JF - Advances in Life Course Research

M1 - 100265

ER -