LONGITUDINAL STUDY Meaning and
Definition
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A longitudinal study is a scientific research method that involves the observation and examination of a group of subjects or individuals over an extended period to investigate changes or developments over time. In this type of study, data is collected and evaluated at multiple intervals throughout the research duration, allowing for the analysis of trends, patterns, or variations that occur within the sample group.
The primary objective of a longitudinal study is to examine how individuals or groups evolve, progress, or adapt over time, often in relation to specific variables or factors. By monitoring participants repeatedly, researchers can acquire comprehensive insights into the effects of time, aging, or exposure to particular circumstances on various aspects of human behavior, physical health, social interactions, or cognitive abilities.
Longitudinal studies commonly involve a wide range of fields, including psychology, sociology, medicine, education, and economics. They offer several advantages, such as the ability to track individuals and assess changes accurately, establish cause-and-effect relationships, capture developmental patterns, investigate rare events, and analyze long-term effects.
However, longitudinal studies can be time-consuming, require substantial resources, and face challenges such as participant attrition, recall bias, or the influence of external factors. Nonetheless, they provide valuable, in-depth data that aids the understanding of human development, societal influences, disease progression, policy effectiveness, and other complex phenomena.
Common Misspellings for LONGITUDINAL STUDY
- kongitudinal study
- pongitudinal study
- oongitudinal study
- lingitudinal study
- lkngitudinal study
- llngitudinal study
- lpngitudinal study
- l0ngitudinal study
- l9ngitudinal study
- lobgitudinal study
- lomgitudinal study
- lojgitudinal study
- lohgitudinal study
- lonfitudinal study
- lonvitudinal study
- lonbitudinal study
- lonhitudinal study
- lonyitudinal study
- lontitudinal study
- longutudinal study
Etymology of LONGITUDINAL STUDY
The word "longitudinal study" is composed of two terms with their respective origins.
1. "Longitudinal" comes from the Latin word "longitudo", meaning "length" or "longness", derived from the combination of "longus" (long) and "tudo" (the quality of). It entered the English language in the mid-17th century.
2. "Study" originated from the Latin word "studere", which means "to be busy with" or "to devote oneself to". It entered Middle English in the 14th century.
When combined, "longitudinal study" refers to a type of research method in which data is collected and observations are made over an extended period, allowing the study of changes or developments in individuals or phenomena over time.
