The National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) is a comprehensive and ongoing study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). It aims to gather extensive data on various aspects of the lives of American youth, covering a wide range of topics and socio-economic factors. This survey is designed to provide valuable information for researchers, policymakers, and various other stakeholders interested in understanding the dynamics and outcomes of youth over time.
The NLSY is carried out through a panel survey, following a nationally representative sample of individuals over several years, tracking their educational attainment, employment history, income, family structure, health, and other significant factors. The survey includes individuals who were 14 to 21 years old at the time of their initial selection, and the data collected covers a broad time span, capturing their development from youth to adulthood.
The survey also includes a sibling sample, which allows researchers to compare outcomes between siblings and account for differences in family background. The NLSY data is widely utilized in social science research to examine factors influencing educational achievement, labor market outcomes, social mobility, health disparities, and other critical issues affecting youth and young adults.
Overall, the NLSY is a valuable resource for understanding the complex interplay of various factors that shape the lives of American youth, providing longitudinal data that enables researchers to analyze trends, assess policy impacts, and inform evidence-based decision-making.
