What is an example of a qualitative research method?

In-depth interviews and focus groups serve as exemplars of qualitative research methods because they prioritize gathering rich, detailed insights into participants' thoughts, feelings, and experiences. These methods allow researchers to explore complex phenomena in a nuanced way, enabling a deeper understanding of social issues, behaviors, and motivations.

Qualitative research emphasizes the subjective interpretation of data and often employs open-ended questions, which facilitate a conversational atmosphere during interviews or discussions. This approach leads to outcomes that reveal the context and meaning behind participants' responses, rather than merely quantifying data. Through these methods, researchers can uncover themes and insights that are not easily captured through quantitative approaches.

In contrast, the other options reflect quantitative methods or structured approaches that focus more on statistical significance and measurable outcomes, which do not align with the qualitative focus on understanding complex human behaviors and capturing the richness of participant experiences.