Focus groups are often used to gather what type of information?

Focus groups are primarily utilized to gather open-ended qualitative insights. This method allows for in-depth discussions where participants can share their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives in a conversational format. Unlike quantitative methods that rely on numerical data, focus groups prioritize understanding the nuances of people's opinions and feelings, making it easier to capture the richness of their experiences regarding a particular topic.

This qualitative information is particularly valuable in fields such as prevention and community health because it can reveal underlying motivations, beliefs, and attitudes that may not be easily quantifiable. The feedback generated from focus groups can inform program development, policy decisions, and strategic planning by providing a deeper understanding of community needs and preferences.