Which of the following are disadvantages of qualitative research?

1.Too sensitive to the context

2.Open to debate

3.Too subjective

4.Difficult to generalise

5.Issue of replication

A1, 4 and 5 only

B2, 3 and 4 only

C3, 4 and 5 only ✓ Correct

D1, 2 and 3 only

Correct answer: (C) 3, 4 and 5 only

Explanation

The disadvantages of qualitative research are that it is too subjective, difficult to generalise, and faces the issue of replication.

It is criticised as too subjective, resting heavily on the researcher's own interpretation.

Findings from small purposive samples are difficult to generalise to a wider population.

Replication is hard because the procedures are unstructured and observer dependent.

Being sensitive to context is usually treated as a strength of qualitative work, not a fault.

Open to debate is too vague to count as a distinct disadvantage of the approach.

Want more like this? Create a free account to practise a full test, track your progress, and get spaced-repetition review.