Parametric and Non-Parametric Regression Models

Abstrakt

In this chapter, we summarize developments of statistical models for parametric, non-parametric and semi-parametric growth curve modeling. We contrast the three approaches both from the technical and also from an user’s point of view. On several examples of classical nonlinear growth curve models, we show nonlinear regression approach to the problem and compare it to the modern (semi-parametric) regression alternatives. We formulate the models somewhat more generally than just growth curve models, allowing for inclusion of covariates which are important in many anthropological problems, where for instance, stability of certain growth parameters across values of selected covariate/covariates is tested.