Methodological Challenges in Collecting Data from Transitional Age Youth: Implications for Sensitive Topics – a Literature Review

This literature review aims to examine the methodological challenges in collecting data on transitional age youth (TAY), individuals transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, typically aged 16-24. TAY represents a diverse group, with variations in cognitive and socio-emotional development, as well as cultural background, complicating data collection efforts. Accurately representing TAY perspectives is crucial due to the developmental significance of this age group, as it informs key areas such as mental health, education, and social behavior. Effectively collecting data may be especially important when addressing sensitive and emotional topics that require careful and nuanced approaches to ensure reliability and validity. This review intends to highlight specific challenges across various data collection methods, including written, face-to-face, and online approaches.

Peer-reviewed articles are sourced from scientific databases such as Google Scholar, JSTOR, PubMed, PsychINFO, and Web of Science, using keywords like ‘young adults,’ ‘adolescence,’ ‘youth,’ ‘sensitive topics,’ ‘data collection,’ and ‘methodological challenges.’ Articles will be selected based on their relevance to TAY and their focus on challenges such as cognitive and socio-emotional factors, language barriers, engagement methods, and inclusiveness. Both qualitative and quantitative studies are anticipated to provide a comprehensive view of the issues in engaging this population.

A preliminary scan of the literature indicates that key challenges include developmental factors influencing how TAY process information and interact with researchers, and adapting communication styles and data collection methods. Face-to-face interviews ease discomfort through multiple interactions but could create social pressure. Online methods offer convenience and access to marginalized groups, yet risk disengagement. Diaries promote spontaneous expression but require sustained effort, while visual methods bridge language barriers but deter less creative participants. This review aims to provide researchers with a clearer understanding of the challenges in collecting reliable data from TAY, particularly on sensitive topics that demand careful consideration to ensure valid results.