Life history analysis with multistate models: A review and some current issues

Life history analysis has evolved in the last 50 years as a methodology for analyzing processes associated with human health, education, employment, and other areas. The complexity of many processes, the difficulty of obtaining complete and accurate data, and the increased use of observational data from registries and administrative sources have posed many recent challenges. We review the evolution of life history analysis, discuss some recent work, and consider three areas currently receiving much attention. A theme we stress is the use of expanded models that include selection and observation processes for studies in addition to the life history process of interest. Examples from health research are presented.

Automated summary

Life history analysis has evolved as a methodology for analyzing processes related to human health, education, employment, and other areas. The complexity of processes, difficulty of obtaining accurate data, and increased use of observational data have posed challenges. This review discusses recent work and emphasizes the use of expanded models.