What is the main focus of qualitative research?

The main focus of qualitative research is to explore phenomena and understand the meanings behind human experiences, behaviors, and social contexts. This approach emphasizes the richness of human experience and seeks to uncover deeper insights into how individuals interpret their surroundings, rather than relying solely on quantifiable data. Qualitative research often involves methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations, which allow researchers to gather detailed narratives and subjective perspectives.

This option stands out as it encapsulates the essence of qualitative inquiry, which values context, depth of information, and the subjective interpretation of social realities. In contrast, other options relate to quantitative research methodologies that prioritize numerical data, statistical analysis, and testing of predefined hypotheses or cause-and-effect relationships. This distinction highlights the unique aims and methods inherent in qualitative research.