Missing Data

While most books on missing data focus on applying sophisticated statistical techniques to deal with the problem after it has occurred, this volume provides a methodology for the control and prevention of missing data. In clear, nontechnical language, the authors help the reader understand the different types of missing data and their implications for the reliability, validity, and generalizability of a study's conclusions. They provide practical recommendations for designing studies that decrease the likelihood of missing data, and for addressing this important issue when reporting study results. When statistical remedies are needed--such as deletion procedures, augmentation methods, and single imputation and multiple imputation procedures--the book also explains how to make sound decisions about their use.

Part 1. A Gentle Introduction to Missing Data. The Concept of Missing Data. The Prevalence of Missing Data. Why Data Might Be Missing. The Impact of Missing Data. What's Missing in the Missing Data Literature? A Cost-Benefit Approach to Missing Data. Missing Data - Not Just for Statisticians Anymore. Part 2. Consequences of Missing Data. Three General Consequences of Missing Data. Consequences of Missing Data on Construct Validity. Consequences of Missing Data on Internal Validity. Consequences on Causal Generalization. Summary. Part 3. Classifying Missing Data. "The Silence That Betokens". The Current Classification System: Mechanisms of Missing Data. Expanding the Classification System. Summary. Part 4. Preventing Missing Data by Design. Overall Study Design. Characteristics of the Target Population and the Sample. Data Collection and Measurement. Treatment Implementation. Data Entry Process. Summary. Part 5. Diagnostic Procedures. Traditional Diagnostics. Dummy Coding Missing Data. Numerical Diagnostic Procedures. Graphical Diagnostic Procedures. Summary. Part 6. The Selection of Data Analytic Procedures. Preliminary Steps. Decision Making. Summary. Part 7. Data Deletion Methods for Handling Missing Data. Data Sets. Complete Case Method. Available Case Method. Available Item Method. Individual Growth Curve Analysis. Multisample Analyses. Summary. Part 8. Data Augmentation Procedures. Model-Based Procedures. Markov Chain Monte Carlo. Adjustment Methods. Summary. Part 9. Single Imputation Procedures. Constant Replacement Methods. Random Value Imputation. Nonrandom Value Imputation: Single Condition. Nonrandom Value Imputation: Multiple Conditions. Summary. Part 10. Multiple Imputation. The MI Process. Summary. Part 11. Reporting Missing Data and Results. APA Task Force Recommendations. Missing Data and Study Stages. TFSI Recommendations and Missing Data. Reporting Format. Summary. Part 12. Epilogue.