YOUth data collection

YOUth provides an extensive (longitudinal) data set on brain and behaviour development from two cohorts: Baby & Child (pregnancy - 7 years) and Child & Adolescent (8 - 16 years).

These data include 3D-ultrasound sweeps of the foetal brain, eyetracking, EEG, (f)MRI, computer tasks, cognitive measurements and parent-child observations. We also collect a broad range of questionnaires on behaviour, personality, health, lifestyle, parenting, child development, use of (social) media and more. Finally, (umbilical) blood samples, buccal swabs, saliva and hair samples are collected at each visit, and stored in the UMC Utrecht Biobank. 

The YOUth cohort study is very valuable given that children are being followed over a long period of time. By performing the same measurements in different developmental periods, YOUth enables us to examine the emergence and development of important behavioral outcomes. The large number of participants in YOUth is also very special. As a researcher, I am therefore very happy with all the parents and children who participate in this research. They make an important contribution to science.

Prospectus 

A complete overview of the data collection can be found in our interactive prospectus (also available as Excel document). Our catalogue with item-level descriptions is under preparation, and will be added here when available. A publication of dummy data is available on Yoda, containing examples of file formats and data-structures.

The YOUth study offers a wealth of information about development from birth to adolescence. The variety of data offers endless possibilities to answer pressing research questions. The dedication of the YOUth team is reflected in the entire data flow from data collection to data management. For example, the sample size and quality of the structural and functional MRI dataset is extraordinary.