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Alternative Methods for Handling Attrition

An Illustration Using Data from the Fast Track Evaluation

Grace Y. Fang

Pennsylvania State University

Conduct Problems Prevention Research Group

Using data from the evaluation of the Fast Track intervention, this article illustrates three methods for handling attrition. Multiple imputation and ignorable maximum likelihood estimation produce estimates that are similar to those based on listwise-deleted data. A panel selection model that allows for selective dropout reveals that highly aggressive boys accumulate in the treatment group over time and produces a larger estimate of treatment effect. In contrast, this model produces a smaller treatment effect for girls. The article’s conclusion discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the alternative approaches and outlines ways in which researchers might improve their handling of attrition.

Key Words: attrition • imputation • selection models • nonresponse

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