ABSTRACT
Based on the propositions and implications from models of human development, coupled with current research design limitations in talent identification and development, the purpose of this chapter is to highlight the significance and benefits from longitudinal multi-variate research approaches toward knowledge and understanding of athlete development. Contemporary models of human development and exceptionality emphasise that there are multiple interacting relationships and reciprocal effects that shape (dys)functional development. Guided by social-ecological theoretical approaches, Talent Development Environments (TDEs) are predicted to affect individual psychology and psychosocial development. By comparison to physical and psychologically TID-related longitudinal studies, studies assessing and examining technical and tactical development have been limited. This broad but concise synthesis of longitudinal research in three areas of TID highlights the existing areas of investigation, research questions examined, methodological approaches adopted, analyses utilised, and provides a current critical assessment of research and applied contributions. In terms of participants, longitudinal study involvement can lead to attrition and dropout problems.
