Which term refers to the systematic collection of data from the same individuals at multiple points in time?

Longitudinal research refers to the systematic collection of data from the same individuals at multiple points in time, making it instrumental for tracking changes and developments within the same subjects over an extended period. This type of research is particularly valuable in fields like psychology, medicine, and social sciences, where understanding the effects of time on variables—such as behavior, health, and attitudes—can provide deeper insights than data captured at a single point in time.

In contrast, cross-sectional research collects data from different individuals at a singular point in time, offering a snapshot rather than a dynamic view of change over time. Qualitative research focuses on understanding concepts, thoughts, or experiences rather than measuring changes quantitatively across time, often involving subjective analysis. Meta-analysis involves statistically combining results from multiple studies to draw broader conclusions, rather than collecting data over time from the same participants. Therefore, longitudinal research stands out as it tracks changes and trends by repeatedly measuring the same individuals over a period.