Which of the following is a feature of qualitative research?

Qualitative research is characterized by its focus on understanding the subjective experiences and perspectives of individuals. This approach prioritizes depth over breadth, aiming to gather rich, detailed insights into people's thoughts, feelings, and interpretations of their social world. In qualitative research, data is typically collected through methods such as interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, which allow researchers to explore complex social phenomena and the meanings individuals attach to their experiences.

The other options reflect characteristics that are not aligned with qualitative research. Numerical data analysis and structured questionnaires are more commonly associated with quantitative research, which seeks to measure and quantify phenomena. Avoiding interaction with participants contradicts the participatory nature of qualitative methods, which often involve direct engagement to elicit detailed responses. Thus, the emphasis on understanding subjective experiences is what distinctly defines qualitative research, making it the correct choice.