Which of the following is true about qualitative data?

Qualitative data is often rich and complex, capturing the nuances of human experience, behavior, and social phenomena. Thematic analysis is a widely used method for interpreting qualitative data, as it allows researchers to identify, analyze, and report patterns or themes within the information collected. This method is particularly valuable because qualitative data often comes from interviews, open-ended surveys, or observations, where participants express their thoughts and feelings in their own words. By identifying themes, researchers can gain deeper insights into the subjects they study, making thematic analysis an essential step in working with qualitative data.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the nature of qualitative data. For instance, while qualitative data can sometimes be quantified for specific analyses, its primary strength lies in capturing detailed descriptions and meanings rather than producing numerical values. Additionally, qualitative data is well-regarded for its ability to richly detail human experiences, rather than measuring them poorly or lacking validity.