Final answer:
Longitudinal research is the collection of data from the same group of consumers repeatedly over time, often through surveys, to track changes in behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The data in question is known as longitudinal research data, which is collected from the same group of consumers repeatedly over time. This methodology involves a survey that asks respondents to answer a series of questions about behaviors and opinions, which could be in the form of a questionnaire. The essence of longitudinal research is to track changes over time, such as shifts in attitudes, beliefs, or habits within a specific population.
Longitudinal research contrasts with a cross-sectional study that collects data from a sample of subjects at just one point in time. By consistently re-evaluating the same participants, researchers can observe how individuals evolve, which is valuable in fields like psychology, sociology, and market research. It is a powerful tool for identifying trends and making connections between early behaviors and later outcomes.