What distinguishes qualitative data from quantitative data?

Qualitative data is fundamentally characterized by its descriptive nature, focusing on understanding social phenomena through rich, detailed insights into people's experiences, thoughts, feelings, and motivations. This type of data often comes from interviews, open-ended survey questions, or observations, allowing for an in-depth exploration of complex issues.

On the other hand, quantitative data is numerical and can be statistically analyzed. It involves measurable data collected through methods like surveys with closed questions, experiments, and other structured techniques, enabling researchers to identify patterns, relationships, and generalizable trends.

This distinction is central to research methodologies in sociology, as it informs the choice of data collection methods based on the research question and the nature of the topic being studied. Descriptive qualitative data provides context and depth to quantitative findings, while quantitative data can help establish broader patterns that qualitative insights can illuminate.