Which type of research focuses on subjective experiences and social phenomena?

Qualitative research is characterized by its focus on subjective experiences and social phenomena. This approach seeks to understand how individuals perceive and interpret their world, capturing the complexity of human behavior and social interactions through methods such as interviews, focus groups, and open-ended surveys.

In qualitative research, the goal is often not to quantify data or test a hypothesis, but rather to gain insights into participants' thoughts, feelings, and motivations. This often includes exploring nuances of social behaviors, cultural contexts, and individual experiences, which would provide rich, descriptive data. This depth of understanding is particularly useful in fields like criminal justice, where understanding the societal context of crime, victim experiences, and the effectiveness of interventions is crucial.

In contrast, approaches like quantitative research prioritize numerical data and statistical analysis, focusing on measuring and comparing variables. Experimental research typically involves manipulating one variable to see its effect on another, which is less suited for exploring subjective experiences. Correlational research examines relationships between variables but does not delve into the meanings or experiences behind those relationships. All these distinctions highlight why qualitative research is particularly aligned with the study of subjective experiences and social phenomena.