Recent advances in latent growth modeling allow for the testing of complex models regarding developmental trends from both an inter-and intra-individual perspective. The interpretation of the of model parameters for the latent growth specification with a simple 2-factor model using a sample analysis of developmental change in adolescent alcohol consumption and the effect of parental monitoring and coercive exchanges on that change with 340 Ss (aged 14-26 yrs) and their parents. Alcohol use was found to increase over time. Findings are discussed with reference to the utility of latent growth curve models for assessing developmental processes at both the inter- and intraindividual level across a variety of behavioral domains.