What characterizes longitudinal research?

Longitudinal research is characterized by the repeated observations of the same variables over an extended period of time. This approach allows researchers to track changes in the same subjects, which is essential for understanding how variables evolve, develop, or respond over time. It can involve collecting data from the same individuals multiple times, thereby providing insights into trends, developments, and causal relationships that might not be apparent through cross-sectional designs, which only capture a snapshot of data at one point in time. By focusing on the same subjects repeatedly, longitudinal research can identify patterns and correlations that contribute to a deeper understanding of the phenomena being studied. This makes it particularly valuable in fields like psychology, where developmental and behavioral changes are often gradual and complex.