longitudinal study

A longitudinal study is research that tracks the same group of people or subjects over an extended period. By collecting data at multiple points in time, it allows researchers to observe how things change or develop, such as behaviors, health conditions, or opinions. This approach helps identify patterns and causes that might not be visible in shorter-term studies, providing a deeper understanding of long-term effects and relationships. It’s often used in fields like medicine, psychology, and social sciences to study development, trends, or the impact of specific factors over time.