Which approach focuses on the analysis of individual experiences in research?

The idiographic approach focuses on the detailed analysis of individual experiences, emphasizing the uniqueness of each case rather than seeking general laws or broad patterns. This approach is particularly valuable in fields like clinical psychology, where understanding the specifics of an individual's situation, personal history, and subjective experiences can lead to more tailored and effective therapeutic interventions.

This method contrasts with the nomothetic approach, which aims at establishing general principles or laws applicable to many individuals, and the quantitative approach, which relies on measuring and analyzing numerical data to determine relationships and trends. The comparative approach typically involves comparing different individuals or groups, which does not align with the idiographic focus on in-depth individual understanding. By prioritizing the individual’s lived experiences, the idiographic approach allows for a richer and more nuanced understanding of phenomena that may be missed in broader analyses.