Which of the following is a recognized limitation of qualitative methods?

Qualitative methods are primarily focused on understanding the richness and complexity of human experiences, thoughts, and social contexts. One recognized limitation of these methods is the challenge of generalization. Since qualitative research often relies on smaller, non-random samples, the findings may reflect the specificities of the studied population rather than being universally applicable. This limitation arises because qualitative studies usually emphasize depth over breadth, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of specific instances rather than making broad claims that apply to larger populations.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately capture the typical limitations associated with qualitative research. For example, while bias can occur in any research methodology, it is not an inherent feature of qualitative methods. The perception that data collection is usually quick is also misleading, as qualitative data gathering often involves time-consuming processes such as interviews or focus groups. Finally, qualitative methods are known for their depth in analysis, as they aim to provide nuanced insights rather than superficial observations.