A Gentle Introduction to Bayesian Analysis: Applications to Developmental Research
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Open Access
- 9 October 2013
- journal article
- developmental method
- Published by Wiley in Child Development
- Vol. 85 (3), 842-860
- https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.12169
Abstract
Bayesian statistical methods are becoming ever more popular in applied and fundamental research. In this study a gentle introduction to Bayesian analysis is provided. It is shown under what circumstances it is attractive to use Bayesian estimation, and how to interpret properly the results. First, the ingredients underlying Bayesian methods are introduced using a simplified example. Thereafter, the advantages and pitfalls of the specification of prior knowledge are discussed. To illustrate Bayesian methods explained in this study, in a second example a series of studies that examine the theoretical framework of dynamic interactionism are considered. In the Discussion the advantages and disadvantages of using Bayesian statistics are reviewed, and guidelines on how to report on Bayesian statistics are provided.Keywords
Funding Information
- The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO-VENI-451-11-008)
- Institute of Education Sciences
- Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education (R305D110001)
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