title: Latent variables and the network perspective.
abstract: We discuss the latent variables construct, particularly in regard to the following: that latent variables are considered as the sole explanatory factor of a disorder; that pragmatic concerns are ignored; and that the relationship of these variables to biological markers is not addressed. Further, we comment on the relationship between bridge symptoms and causality, and discuss the proposal in relationship to other constructs (endophenotypes, connectionist-inspired networks).
authors.affiliation: Université François Rabelais de Tours, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, F-37200 Tours, France. catherine.belzung@univ-tours.f
authors.forename: Catherine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Belzung
authors.forename: Etienne
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Billette de Villemeur
authors.forename: Mael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lemoine
authors.forename: Vincent
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Camus
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis*