Which method involves studying a unique individual or case in depth due to its distinctive attributes?

The case study method is a research approach that involves an in-depth analysis of a single individual or a small group of individuals who possess unique characteristics or experiences. This method is particularly valuable when researchers wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of complex phenomena that may not be easily captured by larger-scale studies or quantitative methods.

Case studies allow psychologists to explore intricate details and nuances, offering insights into the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of the subject in question. This qualitative research approach is especially beneficial when studying rare conditions, unique psychological traits, or specific life events that are not widely applicable to the general population.

Through detailed interviews, observations, and the gathering of historical data related to the subject, researchers can develop a rich narrative that provides depth to the understanding of psychological concepts. The findings from case studies can also lead to the formulation of hypotheses that can be tested in larger studies, serving as a bridge between qualitative and quantitative research methods.

The other research methods mentioned focus on different approaches: surveys typically collect data from larger populations to identify trends, experiments manipulate variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships, and longitudinal studies track changes over time within a group. Each of these methods serves distinct purposes and has its own strengths, but the case study is uniquely suited for exploring the intric