Time, texture and childhood: The contours of longitudinal qualitative research

Authors:
  • BNBren Neale
    Bren Neale
  • JFJennifer Flowerdew
    Jennifer Flowerdew
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Abstract
This paper explores the notions of time and texture --or the interplay of the temporal and cultural dimensions of social life--as the conceptual foundation for the development of longitudinal qualitative (LQ) methodologies. It illustrates the different ways in which time is theorized among both qualitative and quantitative researchers in order to draw out the creative potential offered by LQ methodologies for understanding the dynamics of everyday life. The paper concludes by exploring how LQ methodologies might be used in the context of childhood research and for revisioning the process of 'growing up'.