The Nijmegen Longitudinal Study (NLS) has been following a group of children's development since 1998. The aim is to investigate how children's functioning at different ages is influenced by their interactions with parents and peers, interacting with their temperament and personality traits.
Why NLS?
The main goal of the research is to gain an in-depth understanding of the social development of children, adolescents and young adults, based on the latest scientific findings. It focuses on relationships with parents, caregivers, boyfriends, girlfriends, peers, romantic partners, friends and even peers. Through this research, we can better understand how these social interactions affect individuals' development, which is critical to promoting healthy relationships and well-being at different life stages.
How do we conduct research?
To get the most detailed picture of children's development, various data were collected during home and school visits, as well as college visits. Various methods were used for this purpose, including questionnaires, observations, computer tasks and MRI studies. The most recent measurements have been conducted through online questionnaires. By applying these varied methods year after year, we were able to optimally adapt them to the skills and developments that are most important at each age. As a result, the survey fits well with the interests and priorities of the participating children, and takes into account what concerns them most at each age. In this way, we can gain an in-depth understanding of the child's development.