Snowball Sampling: A Purposeful Method of Sampling in Qualitative Research

Snowball Sampling: A Purposeful Method of Sampling in Qualitative Research

2017 September;14(3):e67670. | Mahin Naderifar, Hamideh Goli, Fereshteh Ghaljaie
The article "Snowball Sampling: A Purposeful Method of Sampling in Qualitative Research" by Mahin Naderifar, Hamideh Goli, and Fereshteh Ghaljaie, published in the *Journal of Advanced Nursing Science and Practice*, reviews the application of snowball sampling in qualitative research. Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method used when target populations are difficult to access. The authors conducted a descriptive review of previous research papers, using keywords such as "review," "declaration," "snowball," and "chain referral" in both English and Persian databases. After screening and selecting relevant articles, 11 studies were identified for detailed analysis. The review highlights the effectiveness of snowball sampling in accessing vulnerable groups and individuals, particularly in health education and research. The method involves recruiting participants through existing samples, who then recommend others with similar characteristics, continuing until data saturation is reached. The authors emphasize the importance of considering individual rights and privacy in the use of snowball sampling and suggest that it should be used strategically to enhance the quality and depth of qualitative research.The article "Snowball Sampling: A Purposeful Method of Sampling in Qualitative Research" by Mahin Naderifar, Hamideh Goli, and Fereshteh Ghaljaie, published in the *Journal of Advanced Nursing Science and Practice*, reviews the application of snowball sampling in qualitative research. Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method used when target populations are difficult to access. The authors conducted a descriptive review of previous research papers, using keywords such as "review," "declaration," "snowball," and "chain referral" in both English and Persian databases. After screening and selecting relevant articles, 11 studies were identified for detailed analysis. The review highlights the effectiveness of snowball sampling in accessing vulnerable groups and individuals, particularly in health education and research. The method involves recruiting participants through existing samples, who then recommend others with similar characteristics, continuing until data saturation is reached. The authors emphasize the importance of considering individual rights and privacy in the use of snowball sampling and suggest that it should be used strategically to enhance the quality and depth of qualitative research.
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