Tuesday August 18, 2026 from 9.00 to 15.00

1. Introduction to Longitudinal Data Modelling with Mplus (and R)

Teacher: Beatrice Bobba (Utrecht University, the Netherlands)

Abstract: Longitudinal data is often of utmost importance to developmental scientists. Analyzing longitudinal data not only allows us to better understand how young people develop, but also to better comprehend within-person processes controlling for between-person differences. In this way, longitudinal data can help distinguish developmental processes from individual differences. Furthermore, longitudinal data can inform us about individual differences in developmental processes. Therefore, applying techniques to analyze longitudinal data is a necessary skill for researchers studying development and developmental processes.

In this workshop, you will acquire hands-on knowledge on conducting advanced SEM analyses to study developmental order and processes controlling for individual differences (Random-Intercept Cross Lagged Panel Models), growth (Latent Growth Curve Models), and individual differences in developmental processes (Latent Class Growth Analysis/Growth Mixture Models). The workshop will focus mainly on applications in Mplus but also provide syntax and codes for analyses in R.

This workshop is aimed at researchers who want to extend their knowledge about SEM longitudinal modelling techniques, and learn how to use these models in their own analyses. Participants should be familiar with basic SEM models (e.g., path analysis, growth models) and should have experience with running analyses in Mplus (and/or R). To follow the applied part of the workshop, at least one of these programs (Mplus demo version 9 can be freely found here https://www.statmodel.com/demo.shtml; R program can be freely found here: https://cran.r-project.org/) should be installed on your computer.

Bio: Dr. Beatrice Bobba is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Psychology at University of Bologna, Italy. She has obtained a PhD in Social Psychology with a dissertation examining the development and socio-contextual correlates of ethnic prejudice among ethnic majority adolescents. In her current research, she builds upon her previous work focusing on the interplay between intergroup experiences and identity processes. She is well versed in advanced longitudinal analyses which she applies to tackle complex interpersonal and intergroup phenomena in adolescence.

2. Introduction to Network Psychometrics with applications in Jasp and R

Teacher: Michaela Zambelli (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy)

Abstract: Network Psychometric Analysis is an innovative approach that allows researchers to conceptualize psychological processes as networks of interacting elements and to investigate their reciprocal dynamics of influence and change over time (Borsboom et al., 2021). This methodology is based on the visualization of patterns of relationships between nodes (i.e., variables or indicators) as weighted edges (i.e., strength of correlation), allowing the researcher to detect significant structures in the data to describe the functioning of complex psychological processes.

If you are interested in delving into the systemic perspective of the network psychometric approach, this pre-conference workshop is perfect for you!

During this workshop, you will learn:
a) the theoretical assumptions of the network psychometric approach;
b) how to interpret a network model and its basic features;
c) how to apply network models to cross-sectional data using the freely available software R and JASP.

Specific Information: No prior knowledge is required to participate in the workshop. It is recommended to download the software R and RStudio https://posit.co/download/rstudio-desktop/), and JASP (https://jasp-stats.org/download/) onto your laptop.

3. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: Guidelines and Best Practices

Teacher: Valeria Bacaro (University of Bologna, Italy)

Abstract: This pre-conference workshop will provide participants with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills needed to understand, plan, and conduct systematic reviews and meta-analyses in psychological research, with a specific focus on adolescence research. The session will combine short lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities, and will provide materials for conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses following international guidelines. The workshop will cover the key steps and skills required to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis, including:  major reporting guidelines knowledge; formulating research questions; defining inclusion and exclusion criteria; conducting comprehensive literature searches; preparing pre-registration, coding protocols, and meta-analytic databases; computing effect sizes and overall estimates.

Specific information: Participants may find it useful to review introductory material such as PRISMA guidelines to conduct systematic review and meta-analysis. No advanced statistical background is required, although basic familiarity with quantitative research methods would be beneficial. Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop. Some practical demonstrations may use Excel or other commonly used tools, but no software installation is strictly necessary.

Author bio: Dr. Valeria Bacaro is a post-doctoral researcher at the Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari” at the University of Bologna, Italy. She is a psychologist, psychotherapist, and holds a PhD in Psychology. She is currently part of the ERC Consolidator Grant IDENTITIES project. Her research interests focus on adolescents’ sleep health and psychosocial development. She has conducted and supervised several systematic reviews and meta-analyses involving different study designs (longitudinal, cross-sectional, intervention studies, and randomized controlled trials). Her expertise includes literature searching strategies, the development of eligibility criteria and coding protocols, assessment of risk of bias using major guidelines (e.g., Cochrane RoB, GRADE), and meta-analytic computations with various statistical software. She also has extensive knowledge of major reporting standards, including PRISMA, MARS, and MOOSE.

4. Scientific Writing and Publishing

Teacher: Sander Thomaes (Utrecht University, the Netherlands)

Abstract: Writing and publishing scientific papers can be challenging, but it is a skill you can learn and continue to refine. This workshop is designed to help you strengthen that skill. We will explore how to communicate your research with clarity, style, and persuasive force. How to organize the main sections of your paper, your paragraphs, and your sentences? How to avoid some common pitfalls of academic writing? How to select a target journal to publish in? How to handle reviews and respond to reviewer comments? Throughout the workshop, you will learn straightforward strategies and work on hands-on exercises aimed at writing clearly, concisely, and effectively. The workshop is intended for PhD candidates and other early career scholars—both those who are new to writing scientific papers and those who have already written one or more.

Specific information: Ahead of the workshop, participants will be invited to share a few questions that they would like to see addressed. No additional preparation is required.

Author bio: Sander Thomaes is Professor of Developmental Psychology and Vice-Dean for Research and Impact at Utrecht University, The Netherlands. His research centers on the overarching question of how young people navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing society. For example, how can youth cope and engage with the reality of climate change? As an administrator, Sander invests in fostering science-society alliance, open science, fair distribution of science funding, and healthy workplace culture. As an educator and mentor, Sander teaches professional development to early career scholars.

5. Critical and Reflexive Migration Research with Quantitative Methods

Teachers: Sauro Civitillo & Philipp Jugert (Utrecht University, the Netherlands / Universität Duisburg-Essen, Germany)

Abstract: TBD

Specific information: No need for some additional knowledge. This workshop is intended  for researchers who use quantitative research methods and are interested in studying migration-related issues among adolescents. No obligatory reading.

6. Networking and Funding Opportunities in Academia

Teacher: Elisabetta Crocetti (Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy)

Abstract: One part will be on establishing and strengthening academic networks, and a second part will offer practical tips for applications, especially grant proposals. The workshop draws on Elisabetta’s experience with Marie Skłodowska-Curie projects, ERC funding, and Erasmus projects, all of which rely on building effective networks.

Specific information: TBD