Kernel-based semiparametric multinomial logit modelling of political party preferences

Conventional, parametric multinomial logit models are in general not sufficient for capturing the complex structures of electorates. In this paper, we use a semiparametric multinomial logit model to give an analysis of party preferences along individuals’ characteristics using a sample of the German electorate in 2006. Germany is a particularly strong case for more flexible nonparametric approaches in this context, since due to the reunification and the preceding different political histories the composition of the electorate is very complex and nuanced. Our analysis reveals strong interactions of the covariates age and income, and highly nonlinear shapes of the factor impacts for each party’s likelihood to be supported. Notably, we develop and provide a smoothed likelihood estimator for semiparametric multinomial logit models, which can be applied also in other application fields, such as, e.g., marketing.     

On the convergence of some adaptive estimation procedures

In the paper we consider some adaptive procedures for estimating the unknown parameters of autoregressive and moving average processes. In case of AK(p) and MA(1) processes sequences of estimators converging with probability one and In mean square are given     

Simulation Technology: A Potential Tool for Social Work Education

After discussing the rationale and procedures by which a course in human sexuality was introduced the authors discuss some of the critical issues that developed during the teaching of the material. It was found that desensitizing became a major factor in integration of course content, and that graduate students needed time to discuss their own feelings about sexual issues. During the several times this course was taught, it became increasingly evident that students often diagnosed pathology based on their own attitudes toward specific sexual activities, and had to learn to use other criteria for more objective assessments.     

Prevalence and correlates of interpersonal violence victimization in a junior enlisted Navy cohort

This study assesses the prevalence and correlates of interpersonal violence victimization in a cohort of 493 male and 220 female junior Navy personnel who participated in a cross-sectional follow-up study on health-related behaviors. Survey data were obtained during 2000 about past-year prevalence of physical violence and sexual victimization. Chi-square tests of independence and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate prevalence rates and to assess correlates of interpersonal violence. No gender differences were found for rates of violence victimization (16.4%) or sexual victimization (4.5%). Significant correlates of interpersonal violence victimization among males were depression and tobacco use; among females, significant correlates were depression and frequent heavy drinking. Findings suggest that large numbers of young enlisted adults serving in the military may be victims of interpersonal violence.     

Analysis and evaluation of moderator effects in regression models: state of art, alternatives and empirical example

The identification and analysis of moderator relationships regularly confronts the empirical research with statistical and methodical challenges. Which misinterpretations and false conclusions result from different methodical procedures for the identification of moderator effects shall be demonstrated by means of the present contribution. Thereby, the moderated regression analysis represents the most popular procedure in this context.     

Cultural-Historical Activity Theory and Cultural Community Psychology: The Potential for Greater Commonality

Greater commonality for Cultural-Community Psychology (CC) and cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) is advocated. The potential for greater commonality is exemplified by a series of examples of the many researchers who now use concepts from both CC and CHAT, including our own career work in culture studies, community development, delinquency, and education. A centering whorl of science is observable in the density of intersections across fields, and research on common propositions, such as the current intersections of intersubjectivity and joint activity, as studied by CC, CHAT, cognitive science, psychoneurology, and intervention theories. Therein exists the promise of a new center of commonality in psychology.