What are the two main research methods used in sociology?

In sociology, the two main research methods used are qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative research focuses on understanding the meaning and experiences behind social phenomena, often gathering data through interviews, open-ended surveys, or observations. This method is valuable for exploring complex issues in depth and providing insights into people's thoughts, feelings, and social contexts.

On the other hand, quantitative research is centered on collecting numerical data and employing statistical analysis to identify patterns, relationships, or trends within the data. It usually entails structured methods like surveys with closed-ended questions, allowing for easier comparison and generalization of findings across larger populations.

Together, these methods provide a comprehensive toolkit for sociologists to investigate social issues, allowing for both detailed exploration of individual experiences (qualitative) and broader statistical analysis (quantitative). The other options suggested various combinations or types of research that don't encapsulate the fundamental dichotomy that characterizes sociological inquiry.