longitudinal methodology

Question 1

strength of longitudinal

Answer 1

• it uses the same people over a period of time so participant variable such as temperament , IQ are controlled
• good way of studying development, longitudinal studies use controlled procedures so any change would be to age so cause and effect can draw conclusions easier than if different people are used

Question 2

weakness of longitudinal

Answer 2

• it is expensive and time consuming due to the length of period they must be studied. Small groups of same people used so can’t be generalized to others.
• there can be a large drop out rate as people can move or don’t want to be part of the study anymore

Question 3

what is a longitudinal method

Answer 3

• it studies participants over a period of time and records their changes at the time.
• same procedures used to measure changes
• reliable as same measures taken to gather data
• valid as same individuals tested over against reality and the way data is gathered.