Patrick J. Curran

Patrick J. Curran is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of North Carolina, affiliated with the L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory and the Quantitude initiative. His research focuses on quantitative methodologies, particularly longitudinal data analysis and structural equation modeling, applied to developmental psychopathology and adolescent substance use. He collaborates on statistical education through YouTube tutorials, a blog (Help Desk), and workshops, alongside a podcast with Greg Hancock. His work bridges methodological innovation with substantive research in psychology and public health.

Key contributions include advancing latent curve models with structured residuals, integrative data analysis techniques, and the dissemination of statistical tools. His research spans disciplines such as developmental psychology, clinical psychology, and epidemiology, addressing topics like alcohol use trajectories, chronic depression mechanisms, and pandemic-related disparities in healthcare workers’ mental health.

• Lab Affiliations: L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Lab, Quantitude
• Collaborations: Dan Bauer (statistical education), Greg Hancock (podcast), and interdisciplinary teams in public health and clinical research

His publications emphasize methodological rigor and practical application, often addressing gaps in longitudinal data analysis and measurement equivalence. Notable work includes the latent curve model with structured residuals (LCM-SR) and integrative data harmonization strategies for prevention science.