As a PhD candidate studying stalking victimization, I often found myself staring at mountains of data,
knowing there were hidden patterns just out of reach. That all changed when I attended an advanced
course on Latent Class Analysis (LCA) in Cologne, Germany, last spring. This experience not only sharpened my statistical skills but also opened new doors in my research on stalking behavior.
The course was an intense dive into the world of LCA, a powerful tool for uncovering hidden groups within data. We tackled everything from model building to interpretation, always with an eye on real-world applications. What set this course apart was its hands-on approach. We didn’t just learn theory; we got our hands dirty with R programming, working through the quirks and challenges of applying LCA to complex datasets.
The impact on my research was immediate and profound. Armed with these new skills, I returned to my stalking victimization data with fresh eyes. Using LCA, I was able to identify distinct patterns of stalking behavior that had previously been invisible. This breakthrough led to a research paper I’ve recently submitted, exploring different types of stalking experiences, what factors might predict them, and their potential outcomes.
But the benefits went beyond just my own work. The course brought together researchers from various fields, sparking conversations that crossed disciplinary boundaries. These discussions not only broadened
my perspective but also planted seeds for future collaborations.
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this experience is its potential to make a real difference in people’s lives. By understanding stalking patterns more deeply, we can develop more targeted interventions and support systems for victims. It’s a reminder of why we do this work – not just to crunch numbers, but to help real people facing real challenges.
As I continue my PhD journey, I carry with me not just new statistical skills, but a renewed sense of
purpose. The ability to uncover hidden patterns in data isn’t just academically interesting; it’s a powerful
tool for understanding and addressing complex social issues like stalking.
This experience was made possible by generous funding, and for that, I’m deeply grateful. It’s an
investment not just in my education, but in the future of stalking research and victim support. As we
continue to refine our understanding of stalking behavior, we move closer to a society where we can more
effectively protect and support those affected by this serious issue.
About the author
Didde Hauch is a PhD candidate in Psychology at
the University of Southern Denmark, specializing
in psychotraumatology and stalking
victimization. Her research focuses on
understanding the psychological consequences
of stalking to improve support for victims.
Contact info: dhauch@health.sdu.dk