purposivesampelointia

Purposive sampling, also known as judgmental, selective, or subjective sampling, is a non-probability sampling technique where the researcher relies on their own judgment when choosing members of the population to participate in their study. The researcher selects participants based on specific characteristics or criteria that are relevant to the research question. This method is employed when the researcher wants to gather in-depth information from individuals who possess particular knowledge, skills, or experiences related to the study's focus.

The primary advantage of purposive sampling is its ability to provide rich, detailed data from a targeted group. It is particularly useful in qualitative research where the goal is to explore a phenomenon in depth rather than to generalize findings to a larger population. Researchers often use this technique in the early stages of research to gain a deeper understanding of a topic or to identify specific subgroups for further investigation.

However, purposive sampling has limitations. Because it is not random, the sample may not be representative of the broader population, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The researcher's own biases can also influence the selection of participants, potentially leading to skewed results. Despite these drawbacks, purposive sampling remains a valuable tool for researchers seeking to gather specific, insightful data from a carefully chosen group of individuals.