Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data - Essay Example

Running head: THE METH EPIDEMIC The Meth Epidemic: A Qualitative and Quantitative Approach THE METH EPIDEMIC 2 The Meth Epidemic: A Qualitative and Quantitative Approach The research entitled “The Meth Epidemic” discusses the processes undertaken to study the “meth” epidemic that has spread across the West Coast. Just like any research project, the case is presented with an introduction of the history of the epidemic and the reason why it got the attention of the law enforcement, the DEA, and other organizations.

Two research methods are utilized to find answers to the existing problems --- the quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative and qualitative research methods are usually compared, interchanged, and contrasted by researchers themselves. However, one should understand that the two methods are meant to answer different sets of problems. If done correctly, each method can be used as supplementary research and the findings can serve as supporting explanations to the other. Usually, the quantitative method provides theories and hypotheses, and the qualitative method explains, proves, or disproves them.

This is exactly what happened to the research done in trying to explain the rise and fall of meth usage in several U.S. states. Looking at the numbers, researchers are dumbfounded to see a similar pattern existing in all states regarding meth usage, despite the different approaches the states use to combat it. The numbers provided by the quantitative research are too general and abstract --- failing to provide the necessary answers to formulate solutions to the said problem. Because of this puzzle, the researchers used the qualitative method to try to find answers to the questions posed by the graphs.

The researchers looked into the history of meth usage and found out descriptive results that tell a story about the connection of meth purity on the streets and the number of people using it. It resulted in forming a solid conclusion on how to address the epidemic of meth addiction. THE METH EPIDEMIC 3 References Byker, C., Lyman, W., Oregon Public Broadcasting., Oregonian (Firm), & PBS Home Video. (2006). The meth epidemic. Alexandria, Va.: PBS Home Video. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/meth/view/