What is a key characteristic of qualitative research?

A key characteristic of qualitative research is that it reflects the complexity of opinions and emotions. This type of research is primarily concerned with understanding the underlying reasons, motivations, and subjective experiences of individuals, rather than just quantifying data. Qualitative methods often involve in-depth interviews, focus groups, or observations, which allow researchers to capture rich, detailed insights into participants' thoughts and feelings.

This characteristic sets qualitative research apart from quantitative approaches, which typically aim to measure variables and analyze data statistically. By focusing on the nuances of human experiences and perspectives, qualitative research provides a deeper understanding of the context and meaning behind the data, which can be invaluable for developing theories or insights that might not emerge from purely numerical analysis.