Qualitative Research Methods: Theory, Applications, and Best Practices
- Miguel Virgen, PhD Student in Business
- Jan 30
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 21
February (Doctors In Business Journal) - Qualitative research methods are central to the social sciences, humanities, and various applied fields, providing nuanced insights into human experiences, social phenomena, and complex behaviors that cannot be easily quantified. These methods are characterized by their focus on understanding meanings, perceptions, and experiences from the perspectives of participants, often emphasizing context, subjectivity, and deep exploration of phenomena. This paper reviews the foundational principles of qualitative research, discusses key methods such as interviews, focus groups, ethnography, and content analysis, and explores their applications across disciplines. Additionally, the paper highlights the challenges and ethical considerations inherent in qualitative research, offers practical guidelines for conducting rigorous qualitative studies, and reflects on emerging trends in the field. By understanding the strengths and limitations of qualitative methods, researchers can effectively utilize these approaches to gain deeper insights into complex social and psychological phenomena.
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