Which of the following is true about qualitative data?

Qualitative data is characterized by its focus on understanding human behavior, thoughts, and experiences in a naturalistic context. This type of data often consists of non-numerical information such as interviews, open-ended survey responses, and observations. Thematic analysis is a common method used to interpret qualitative data because it allows researchers to identify, analyze, and report patterns (themes) within the data. This analytic approach helps in organizing the information in a meaningful way, allowing deeper insights into the participants' experiences and perspectives. Therefore, it accurately reflects the nature of qualitative research, aiming to capture the richness and complexity of human experiences.

In contrast to qualitative data, quantitative data emphasizes numerical measurement and statistical analysis, which explains why the first option, stating that qualitative data can be easily quantified, is not accurate. The other statements regarding the clarity of measurement and validity also fail to align with the strengths of qualitative research, which focuses on depth of understanding rather than strict numerical validation.