For the selection of samples in research, the snowball sampling method employs

Correct option is D

The snowball sampling method is a non-probability sampling technique used when researchers have difficulty identifying potential subjects in a population. In this method, existing study subjects recruit future subjects from among their acquaintances or networks, creating a "snowball effect." This technique is particularly useful when studying hidden or hard-to-reach populations, such as individuals with rare diseases, members of marginalized communities, or people involved in sensitive activities.
In snowball sampling, participants refer others who fit the research criteria, thus expanding the sample size through referrals.
Information Booster: 1. Snowball sampling is useful for research on sensitive or specialized topics where participants are hard to identify.
2. It is widely used in qualitative research.
3. One limitation is that the sample may become biased, as participants tend to refer people they know, leading to homogeneity in the sample.
4. This technique is cost-effective and allows researchers to access participants who might otherwise be unavailable.
5. Chain-referral sampling is another term used for this technique.
6. Snowball sampling is also used in social network studies to trace connections between individuals or groups.