How to Use the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) To Estimate Different Dyadic Patterns in MPLUS: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Abstract

Dyadic data analysis with distinguishable dyads assesses the variance, not only between dyads, but also within the dyad when members are distinguishable on a known variable. In past research, the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) has been the statistical model of choice in order to take into account this interdependence. Although this method has received considerable interest in the past decade, to our knowledge, no specific guide or tutorial exists to describe how to test an APIM model. In order to close this gap, this article will provide researchers with a step-by-step tutorial for assessing the most recent advancements of the APIM with the use of structural equation modeling (SEM). The present tutorial will also utilize the statistical program MPLUS.

Keywords

• Actor-Partner Interdependence Model
• Dyadic data analysis
• Tutorial
• MPLUS