What is a defining characteristic of a case study?

A defining characteristic of a case study is that it offers an in-depth examination of a particular individual, group, or situation over time. This method allows researchers to gather comprehensive data and insights, providing a detailed understanding of the complexities involved in the case being studied. Case studies are particularly valuable in sociology and other social sciences because they make it possible to explore the nuances of real-life contexts and the impacts of various factors on the subjects in question.

By focusing specifically on a single case or a small number of cases, researchers can observe dynamic processes, context-specific behaviors, and intricate relationships that might be missed in broader quantitative studies. The richness of the data collected through case studies makes them particularly effective for generating hypotheses and for exploring specific sociological phenomena in depth.