State space grids: Analyzing dynamics across development

Abstract

Developmentalists are generally interested in systems perspectives and this is reflected in the theoretical models of the past decade. However, the methodological tools to test these models are either nonexistent or difficult for many researchers to use. This article reviews the state space grid (SSG) method for analyzing synchronized event sequences based on dynamic systems (DS) principles. Following a review of these DS concepts and the basics of the SSG method, several studies are reviewed. Greater emphasis and detail are provided for three longitudinal studies that relate real-time socioemotional dynamics to processes of developmental change and stability. The concluding sections provide guidelines for researchers interested in using the SSG method and some suggestions for future SSG studies.