Challenges in Conducting a New Longitudinal Study on Children and Young People Well-Being in the European Union

Abstract

Longitudinal studies have a number of challenges in terms of data collection and analysis including sample attrition, panel conditioning, coverage error, time and cost. In addition, variability exists among European nations as to the availability and coverage of sampling frames, laws and regulations that restrict aspects of survey practice, availability and capacity of survey research organisations, cultural and behavioural norms, language(s) spoken, geographical dispersal of the study populations. Furthermore, research involving children and young people requires ethical considerations including how the children and young people can and should be involved in a study with reference to the degree of control and participation that they have.