What characterizes the sample size in qualitative research?

In qualitative research, the sample size is typically characterized as often being small and specific. This approach allows researchers to conduct in-depth explorations of particular individuals, groups, or contexts, providing rich, detailed insights into the phenomena being studied. A smaller, more focused sample enables researchers to gather nuanced data that reflects the complexities of the participants' experiences and perspectives.

Qualitative research prioritizes depth over breadth, which is why a smaller sample size is sufficient for achieving meaningful findings. In contrast to quantitative research, which seeks to establish generalizable patterns across larger populations through random sampling, qualitative research is more concerned with the significance and context of each participant's input. This focus on specific cases or phenomena is crucial for understanding the social, cultural, and emotional dimensions of the research topic.