What characterizes a longitudinal study?

A longitudinal study is characterized by the collection of data from the same subjects over an extended period. This design allows researchers to observe changes and developments within the subjects over time, making it particularly valuable for studying trends, patterns, and long-term effects related to specific variables or phenomena. By following the same individuals, researchers can gain insights into the dynamics of change and continuity, making it a powerful method for understanding growth, aging, and other time-related factors in research.

The ability to track the same group provides depth to the research findings, enhancing the reliability and validity of the conclusions drawn from the data. This contrasts with studies that collect data at a single point in time or from different subjects, which do not provide the same level of insight into longitudinal changes.