Final answer:
A study where participants answer questions in their own words is an example of qualitative research, yielding in-depth personal explanations and subjective insights.
Step-by-step explanation:
A study where participants answer questions in their own words is an example of qualitative research. This method allows for the collection of in-depth personal explanations and subjective responses, providing insights into individuals' thoughts, experiences, and beliefs. Qualitative data is qualitative information which is often more difficult to organize and tabulate due to its narrative nature, unlike the numerical data in quantitative research.
One of the most comprehensive surveys was conducted by Ruth W. Howard, who studied 229 sets of triplets to complete her doctorate in 1934, making history as the first African-American woman to earn a PhD in psychology. Interviews and open-ended questions on surveys are two methods of collecting qualitative data, as they allow for natural, open conversation where respondents can freely voice their opinions and beliefs.
It's also worth noting that participants may be more willing to provide honest answers when anonymity is maintained, particularly with sensitive or personal topics. As a result, researchers might use anonymous written surveys or one-on-one interviews to encourage honest discourse. This type of data is invaluable for understanding complex internal processes that are not easily observable.