Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Qualitative research is fundamentally different from quantitative research in its approach and methodology. One of the defining characteristics of qualitative research is that it primarily focuses on exploring and understanding the meanings, experiences, and perspectives individuals have regarding specific phenomena. This is achieved through methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations.

Engaging in hypothesis testing is a hallmark of quantitative research rather than qualitative research. In qualitative studies, researchers often seek to generate hypotheses or theories rather than test them. The focus is on exploring nuanced insights and understanding complex social processes instead of confirming or refuting predetermined hypotheses. Therefore, the characteristic of engaging in hypothesis testing does not align with the foundational principles of qualitative research.

The other characteristics listed, such as identifying researcher bias, managing and analyzing data throughout the study, and collaborating with participants, are integral to qualitative research. Identifying researcher bias is crucial to ensure transparency and integrity in the interpretation of qualitative data. Managing and analyzing data throughout the study reflects the iterative nature of qualitative research, where data collection and analysis occur simultaneously. Collaboration with participants is also essential, as it emphasizes the co-creation of knowledge and respects the participants' expertise regarding their own experiences.