Final answer:
Sieber and Stanley, guided by a symbolic interactionist perspective, would likely employ qualitative research methods to deeply understand social behaviors and symbols.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers in the field of sociology employ various methodologies to explore societal patterns and behaviors. The method chosen is influenced by the overarching theoretical framework and the specific aims of the study. When considering the methodology used by Sieber and Stanley, we must analyze the techniques associated with different sociological perspectives.
Quantitative research methods, such as surveys and statistical analysis, are typically utilized in positivist research to uncover patterns in large sample sizes. On the other hand, qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews and participant observation, are preferred by researchers following an anti-positivist or interpretive framework, such as symbolic interactionists, who aim to dive deep into the symbolic significance of social interactions.