Which variable type is often used in survey research?

In survey research, both qualitative and quantitative variables are commonly employed to gather a wide range of information from participants.

Qualitative variables, or categorical variables, include responses that provide non-numeric insights, such as opinions, attitudes, or demographics (like gender or ethnicity). These variables help researchers understand the context and meaning behind people's responses, allowing for a richer interpretation of data.

On the other hand, quantitative variables involve numerical data that can be measured and analyzed statistically, such as age, income, or frequency of an occurrence. These variables allow researchers to perform mathematical operations, derive statistics, and make inferences about the population from which the sample was drawn.

By utilizing both types of variables, survey research can yield comprehensive data that captures both the breadth (through quantitative measures) and depth (through qualitative insights) of people's experiences and views. Consequently, this dual approach enhances the study's overall validity and reliability, making it a robust method for data collection in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and market research.