What is a Snowball Sampling in Research? Methods and Examples
Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling method commonly used in qualitative research, particularly when studying populations that are difficult to reach through conventional sampling techniques. This article examines the concept of snowball sampling, its methodological underpinnings, practical applications, advantages, and potential drawbacks. Additionally, the discussion includes illustrative tables and figures to aid in understanding the technique. Introduction Snowball sampling is an approach in which existing study subjects recruit future subjects from among their acquaintances. This technique is beneficial when the research target is hidden or hard-to-reach populations, such as individuals involved in illicit activities, members of marginalized groups, or people with specific rare characteristics. The method relies on the social networks of initial subjects, referred to as “seeds,” to build a larger sample size. Conceptual Overview of Snowball Sampling Snowball ...
