Latent growth curve modeling is a useful tool for studying how things change over time. In communication research, it's often used to analyze data collected from the same group of people at different points. There are different types of models that can be used, like univariate models that look at one variable changing, or multivariate models that consider multiple factors influencing change. These models can also include terms that account for past changes and identify different patterns of growth in different groups. Overall, latent growth curve modeling helps researchers understand how things evolve over time in a clear and structured way.