Final answer:
The assertion that researchers collect narrative data through interviews and observation is true, and this form of data collection is especially aligned with the practices of a symbolic interactionist, who would likely use participant observation to gather rich qualitative data.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that researchers collect narrative (verbal) data through interviews and observation is true. Narrative data is a form of qualitative information that is conveyed through words and often involves subjective experiences and perspectives. This type of data typically comes from interviews where participants provide detailed answers to open questions, as well as from observations in field research where researchers witness and record real-life activities in natural settings.
In terms of research techniques, a symbolic interactionist, who focuses on the subjective meanings of human actions and interactions, would most likely utilize participant observation. This method allows the researcher to immerse themselves in the social environment of their subjects, thereby gaining insights into the complex web of social interactions and meanings.
Collecting qualitative data through interviews and field observations often results in a wide range of responses, which can be surprising and rich in detail, providing a deep understanding of the subject matter. However, organization and interpretation of this narrative structure and data can be more challenging compared to quantitative data, which is more straightforward to tabulate and analyze statistically.