What is a key feature of focus groups in qualitative research?

Focus groups in qualitative research are designed to foster participant interaction and dialogue, which is a fundamental aspect of their methodology. This interactive environment allows participants to express their thoughts and feelings openly, respond to one another, and build on each other’s ideas. The dynamic nature of group discussions can lead to richer insights and a deeper understanding of participants' perspectives, as the exchanges often reveal nuances that might not surface in one-on-one interviews.

By creating a conversational atmosphere, focus groups can elicit a range of opinions and experiences on a specific topic, providing researchers with qualitative data that reflects the complexity of human attitudes and behaviors. This engagement is crucial for exploring how participants conceptualize issues and for identifying shared experiences or divergent viewpoints, making it a key feature of this research method.