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The harmonisation of longitudinal data: a case study using data from cohort studies in The Netherlands and the United Kingdom
- Authors:
- BATH Peter A., DEEG Dorly, POPPELAARS Jan
- Journal article citation:
- Ageing and Society, 30(8), November 2010, pp.1419-1437.
- Publisher:
- Cambridge University Press
This paper examined the challenges and requirements associated with harmonising data from two independently-conceived datasets from The Netherlands and the UK. The objectives were to create equivalent samples and variables, and to identify the methodological differences that affect the comparability of the samples. Twenty six harmonised variables were found: demographic composition and personal finances, physical health, mental health and loneliness, contacts with health services, physical activity, religious attendance and pet ownership. The ways in which the methodological differences between the two studies and their different selective attrition might lead to sample differences were carefully considered. It was concluded that the challenges of conducting cross-national comparative research using independent datasets include differences in sampling, study design, measurement instruments, response rates and selective attrition. The authors concluded that comparative studies about socio-cultural differences must first identify and address these challenges.