Latent class analysis is a statistical method used to identify distinct groups or classes within a population based on their responses to a set of observed variables. These classes are not directly observable but are inferred from patterns in the data. This method is commonly used in social sciences, marketing research, and other fields to identify subgroups in a population that share similar characteristics or behaviors. Latent class analysis allows researchers to better understand the heterogeneity within a population and can be used to inform targeted interventions or marketing strategies.