Which of the following is an example of a qualitative research method?

The example of a qualitative research method is a focus group or in-depth interview. Qualitative research is primarily concerned with understanding human behavior, perceptions, and motivations, often through methods that provide rich, descriptive insights. Focus groups facilitate discussion and interaction among participants, allowing researchers to explore participants’ thoughts and feelings in depth. In-depth interviews allow for a one-on-one interaction that can uncover nuanced perspectives and experiences.

In contrast, closed-ended surveys are quantitative methods, as they typically restrict responses to predefined options, limiting the depth of insight. Market segmentation analysis and statistical trend analysis also lean towards quantitative approaches, focusing on numerical data and statistical relationships rather than exploring the underlying motivations or attitudes that qualitative methods like focus groups can reveal. Therefore, the chosen answer reflects the characteristics and goals of qualitative research effectively.