Cross Sectional And Longitudinal Studies

Question 1

Cross sectional definition

Answer 1

A study that takes place at one specific moment in time, one group of participants representing one section of society are compared with another group

Question 2

Longitudinal definition

Answer 2

Study conducted over a long period of time, same participants assessed at multiple points over a time period

Question 3

Advantages of cross-sectional studies

Answer 3

Quick and practical

Less ethical considerations than longitudinal

Participants more easily obtained, as there is less pressure than longitudinal

Question 4

Disadvantages of cross-sectional studies

Answer 4

Less rich , detailed data

Harder to identify and analyse developmental trends

Less data

Question 5

Advantages of longitudinal studies

Answer 5

Same group of participants, so participant variables do not affect data collected

Best way of spotting developmental trends as they repeat tests at regular intervals and compare results

Question 6

Disadvantages of longitudinal studies

Answer 6

Participants may no longer be able to/want to partake in the study, which disrupts it

Can be expensive, very time consuming, data collection and analysis can vary in strength if the researcher changes