Participant Profile in Qualitative Research: Selection Criteria, Saturation, and Validation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This article analyzes the theoretical-methodological foundations underlying participant characterization in scientific studies. The specific objectives are to: (a) identify key sociodemographic variables used in characterization; (b) describe the importance of the sample profile for interpreting results; (c) analyze advantages, limitations, and classifications of sampling strategies; and (d) discuss implications for internal and external validity. The guiding question is: how does rigorous participant characterization contribute to the quality and credibility of scientific research? Methodologically, this is a narrative theoretical review of authors published mainly between 2021 and 2025, using a documentary analysis matrix (registration protocol) to record authorship, methodological approach, and thematic contribution for each source. Findings show that detailed sample-profile description is indispensable for data interpretation and generalization — a position this article endorses, arguing that characterization should be treated as an analytical instrument rather than a mere formality.
DOI: 10.67294/h7havr06
Institutions: Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Universidade Rovuma
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204852124