Assignment 3
Unique No: 827150
Due 30 June 2025
, HMPYC80
Assignment 3
Unique No: 827150
Due 30 June 2025
Steps unique to qualitative research
Introduction
Qualitative research stands as a critical methodology within psychology and the broader
social sciences, distinctly emphasizing the exploration of human experiences,
meanings, and social contexts. Unlike its quantitative counterpart, which focuses on
numerical data analysis, qualitative inquiry delves into phenomena through in-depth
investigation, seeking to understand why and how rather than merely what or how
much. This paper aims to meticulously analyze the unique procedural steps inherent in
qualitative research, with particular attention given to thematic inquiry and narrative
inquiry as pivotal research strategies. Furthermore, it will explore the nuances of
interviews as a primary data collection method and will critically discuss the crucial
concept of trustworthiness within the realm of qualitative research.
The Unique Steps of Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is characterized by a series of interconnected stages, including
research design, data collection, sampling techniques, data analysis, and interpretation.
These steps are not rigidly linear but rather form an interrelated and iterative process,
often evolving dynamically as the research unfolds (Fouché et al., 2021). The following
sections will provide a detailed elaboration on these distinctive steps that define
qualitative inquiry.