Use of Population-Level Administrative Data in Developmental Science

Area of Science:

• Developmental Science
• Population Health
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Population-level administrative data offer unique insights into life-course development.
• These data sources encompass interactions with health, criminal justice, and education systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significant contributions of administrative data research to developmental science.
• To highlight five key areas where these data have advanced understanding.
• To propose future directions for leveraging administrative data in developmental research.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing research utilizing population-level administrative data.
• Synthesis of findings across five distinct areas of developmental science.
• Identification of opportunities for future data linkage and resource development.

Main Results:

• Administrative data facilitate the study of small or hard-to-reach populations.
• They enable evaluation of intergenerational and family influences on development.
• Research using these data aids in estimating causal effects via natural experiments and identifying at-risk individuals.
• Neighborhood and environmental influences on development can be assessed.

Conclusions:

• Linking prospective surveys to administrative data will expand research capabilities.
• Establishing new linked administrative data resources, including in developing nations, is crucial.
• Cross-national comparisons are needed to ensure generalizability of findings.
• Future initiatives require consultation with diverse groups, social license, and robust ethical governance.