Longitudinal studies

Question 1

What are longitudinal studies

Answer 1

This is an investigation that follows a group of participants overtime.

The researchers are interested in how variables change over time.

Question 2

What is a cohort

Answer 2

A group of subjects selected at the same time/age and tested at different times

Question 3

Strengths of longitudinal studies

Answer 3

1) Can be used to investigate constructs / variables that change overtime •

2) Can be used to track the long term effectiveness of interventions using follow-up sessions .

3) They retest the same individuals this means that the researcher can be sure that differences are not due to participant variables.

Question 4

Weaknesses of longitudinal studies

Answer 4

Sample attrition- because longitudinal studies last for a long time the sample is likely to fall. Due to moving locations , death , boredom.

Low generalisability -> When you lose your ss to attrition, the small sample size becomer less representative of the diversities of the general population.

Low reliability - measures used in longitudinal studies are not standardised as they may need to be improved overtime to remain relevant to the ss.

Low objectivity -> researchers may develop relationships with the ss, lowering their objectivity.