A generalization of the growth curve model which allows missing data

This study presents methods for estimating and testing hypotheses about linear functions of the unknown parameters in a generalization of the growth curve model which allows missing data. The estimators proposed are best asymptotically normal (BAN). A testing method for large samples is described which uses a test criterion given in general form by Wald. The asymptotic null distribution of the test statistic is a central chi-square variable. A BAN estimator of a linear vector function of the unknown parameters of the expectation model and consistent estimators of the variance-covariance parameters are required for computation.