In social work, how is "quantitative research" best defined?

Quantitative research in social work is best defined as research that concentrates on numerical data and statistical analysis. This type of research seeks to quantify behaviors, opinions, or phenomena by collecting data that can be measured and analyzed using statistical techniques. It typically involves structured methods such as surveys, experiments, or existing databases, allowing researchers to generalize findings to larger populations. By focusing on measurable variables, quantitative research provides a foundation for making objective conclusions and identifying patterns, correlations, or causal relationships within social work practice.

In contrast, the other definitions do not encapsulate the essence of quantitative research. Descriptive methods pertain more to qualitative research, which focuses on understanding the nuances of human behavior and experiences rather than on numeric data. Research that focuses on personal experiences aligns more with qualitative approaches, where the emphasis is on depth over breadth. Lastly, relying solely on case studies does not reflect the comprehensive scope and statistical rigor typically associated with quantitative methodologies. Therefore, concentrating on numerical data and employing statistical analysis is what distinctly defines quantitative research within social work.