What is a key feature of qualitative research methods?

Qualitative research methods are characterized by their focus on understanding the nuances of human experiences, feelings, and perspectives. This approach seeks to gain insights into the social world through the meanings that individuals attach to their experiences. Instead of relying on numerical data or statistics, qualitative research emphasizes in-depth exploration, often using methods such as interviews, focus groups, or participant observation.

This focus allows researchers to capture the complexity of social phenomena and provide a richer, more contextualized understanding of the topics studied. It acknowledges that individuals’ interpretations and subjective experiences are crucial for understanding social behaviors and relationships. Thus, the second choice aligns with the core principles of qualitative research, distinguishing it from quantitative methods, which are more focused on measurable data and statistical analysis.

The other options present characteristics that do not align with qualitative research. For example, strictly numerical approaches are indicative of quantitative research, while avoiding participant interaction contradicts the interactive nature of qualitative methods. Additionally, requiring large sample sizes is more typical of quantitative research, where the aim is often to generalize findings to a broader population. Qualitative research, on the other hand, typically involves smaller, more focused samples that allow for detailed exploration of individual cases.