TIME-SERIES ANALYSIS IN HISTORIOMETRY - A COMMENT ON SIMONTON

Time series analysis (TSA) is one of a number of new methods of data a nalysis appropriate for longitudinal data. Simonton (1998) applied TSA to an analysis of the causal relationship between two types of stress and both the physical and mental health of George m. This innovative application demonstrates both the strengths and weaknesses of time ser ies analysis. Time series is applicable to a unique class of problems, can use information about temporal ordering to make statements about causation, and focuses on patterns of change over time, all strengths of the Simonton study. Time series analysis also suffers from a number of weaknesses, including problems with generalization from a single s tudy, difficulty in obtaining appropriate measures, and problems with accurately identifying the correct model to represent the data. While careful attempts are made to minimize these problems, each is present in the Simonton study, although sometimes in a subtle manner. Changes in how the data could be gathered are suggested that might help to sol ve some of these problems in future studies. Finally, the advantages a nd disadvantages of employing alternative methods for analyzing multiv ariate time series data, including dynamic factor analysis, are discus sed.