A new wave of behavior genetic modeling using covariance structure analysis

A number of useful methods for analyzing covariance structure have been proposed in the studies of human behavior genetics, reflecting the fact that the behavior genetic studies are one of the main origins of covariance structure model. In this paper, I review recent progress on methodology for behavior genetic studies of twins and families from the standpoint of the structural equation modeling. Especially, genetic ACE (additive genetic, common environment and random environment) model, multivariate ACE model, genetic factor analysis model and twin-parent model are focused upon. This review also discusses how to construct applied structural equation models which are useful for psychological research.