Snowball Sampling

Some populations that we are interested in studying can be hard-to-reach and/or hidden. These include populations such as drug addicts, homeless people, AIDS/HIV patients, prostitutes etc.


Method of snow ball sampling.

Some populations that we are interested in studying can be hard-to-reach and/or hidden. These include populations such as drug addicts, homeless people, AIDS/HIV patients, prostitutes etc. The populations can be hard-to-reach and/or hidden due to social stigma, illicit or illegal behaviours, or other traits that makes them atypical and/or socially marginalized. Snowball sampling is a type of non-probability sampling technique i.e., the technique is based on the judgement of the researcher, and can be used to gain access to such populations.

To create a snowball sample, there are two steps:
1. First, we need to try and find one or more units from the population we are studying. Ex: If we want to study students that take drugs, the aim is to start with whatever small number students, who are willing to participate, even if it’s one or two units.
2. Using these units to find further units and so on until the sample size is met. Ex: The researcher asks the students who participated in the research to help identify other students that may be willing to take part. In this respect, the initial students help to identify additional units that will make up our sample.

* * *

Source:
http://dissertation.laerd.com/snowball-sampling.php

If you found this useful, do remember to like Psychology Learners on Facebook and subscribe by email.


For 'SuperNotes' click here.

For Free eBook previews click here.

For other IGNOU MAPC material click here.

For IGNOU related information and material click here.

IGNOU Students - please visit the FREE IGNOU Help Center for latest updates.
IGNOU Solved Assignments: Q13 - MAPC MPC005 Research Methods in Psychology - MPC005/ASST/TMA/2014-15
0 Comments.
Start the discussion!
Comment using Facebook
What others like...

Are you a Mental Health Leader?

If you are a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, therapist, educator or a mental health institution administrator we can help you improve your client satisfaction and generate higher revenues.

Contact Us

The Real Happiness Center

With a focus on positive psychology and passion for spreading happiness in the world, The Real Happiness Center is helping people find out what happiness means to them, and how they can achieve it.