What is the primary role of a researcher in a focus group study?

In a focus group study, the primary role of a researcher is to set a discussion topic and facilitate participant interaction. This involves designing the discussion guide to ensure that the conversation flows smoothly and covers relevant themes while encouraging participants to share their thoughts and experiences. The researcher must create an open and inclusive environment where all participants feel comfortable expressing their opinions without fear of judgment.

Facilitating participant interaction is crucial because it allows the researcher to gather diverse perspectives and insights that can help illuminate the research question. By encouraging dialogue and probing deeper into participants' responses, the researcher can uncover underlying attitudes, behaviors, and motivations that might not be evident through other research methods.

Setting the discussion topic is equally important, as it provides a framework for the conversation, keeping it focused and relevant to the goals of the study. This structured yet flexible approach enables the researcher to adapt as needed, ensuring rich and meaningful data collection. Overall, the researcher acts as a guide who steers the discussion while maintaining a neutral stance to allow participants to express their views freely.