Final answer:
A focus group where consumers associate terms with a brand name is an example of free association, a qualitative research method used to understand consumer attitudes and perceptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenario you described where consumers in a focus group are asked to associate terms and phrases when they hear a brand name is best characterized as free association. Companies use this qualitative research method to gain insights into consumers' thoughts and feelings about a brand, which can later inform marketing and product development strategies. Unlike quantitative feedback that focuses on numerical data and metrics, free association allows for open-ended and subjective responses, revealing underlying attitudes and perceptions towards the brand 'Rotomatix'.