Which sampling method uses subject characteristics to determine the sample?

Purposeful sampling, also known as purposeful or judgmental sampling, involves selecting participants based on specific characteristics or criteria that are relevant to the research study. This method allows researchers to focus on a particular subset of individuals who possess certain attributes important for the analysis. It is particularly useful when the goal is to gain deeper insights into a specific population or phenomenon, ensuring that the data collected are rich and relevant to the research objectives.

This approach contrasts with random sampling, which aims to select participants randomly to achieve a sample that is representative of the whole population. Simple sampling, which refers to a non-specific selection method, also does not emphasize participant characteristics. Systematic sampling involves selecting subjects based on a fixed, regular pattern from a larger population but does not focus on specific characteristics of the subjects. Therefore, purposeful sampling stands out as the method that specifically uses subject characteristics to determine the sample.