Mplus 8.8 -

| Estimator | Use case | Robust SEs | |-----------|----------|-------------| | ML (Maximum Likelihood) | Continuous, normal | MLR, MLF | | MLF | ML with first-order derivatives | Yes | | MLR | ML with sandwich estimator | Yes | | WLSMV | Ordinal/categorical outcomes | Yes | | ULSMV | Unweighted least squares for large samples | Yes | | Bayes | Small samples, complex priors | Posterior SD | | GEE | Clustered data, marginal models | Yes |

1. Introduction: What is Mplus? Mplus, developed by Bengt Muthén and Linda Muthén, is a specialized statistical modeling program. Unlike general-purpose tools like R, SPSS, or Stata, Mplus is narrowly but deeply focused on latent variable modeling . Version 8.8, the latest major release as of late 2024/early 2025, continues the software’s three-decade legacy of pushing the boundaries of structural equation modeling (SEM), growth modeling, and multilevel analysis. mplus 8.8

Mplus 8.8 is not trendy. It has no flashy interface or large open‑source community. But for researchers who need to answer complex questions about unobserved processes – whether latent classes of depression trajectories, multilevel mediation with ordinal outcomes, or factor mixture models – Mplus remains the definitive tool. Version 8.8 refines that legacy without reinventing it, making it a wise investment for serious latent variable modelers. | Estimator | Use case | Robust SEs