What research style involves collecting data over a defined period of time to test a hypothesis?

The chosen answer reflects a research style known for its systematic approach to data collection over time, which is integral for hypothesizing and identifying causal relationships. This style, prospective research, is designed to follow subjects forward in time, collecting data at various intervals to observe outcomes based on earlier defined criteria or interventions.

In prospective research, researchers establish a clear timeframe during which they gather data on subjects who may be exposed or not exposed to particular factors. This approach allows for the observation of changes and the assessment of associations between variables as they occur over that defined period, which is crucial when testing hypotheses relating to causes and effects.

This temporal element distinguishes prospective research from other styles like cross-sectional research, which captures data at a single point in time and does not offer insights into changes over a period. Similarly, while experimental research may involve manipulating variables over time, it typically focuses on controlled conditions to determine effects, which may not always be reflective of real-world situations. Quasi-experimental research also seeks to test hypotheses but often lacks random assignment to groups, potentially confounding the results, and may not have the same structured timeframe for data collection as seen in prospective studies.

Therefore, the key characteristic of collecting longitudinal data to test hypotheses aligns correctly with the definition of