What type of research examines the human experience from the subjective perspectives of participants?

Phenomenological research is focused on exploring and understanding how individuals perceive and experience particular phenomena. This type of research emphasizes the subjective perspectives of participants, aiming to uncover their lived experiences and the meanings they attach to those experiences. By prioritizing participants' viewpoints, phenomenological research provides rich, in-depth insights into the complexities of human experiences, which can be particularly valuable in fields like music therapy where understanding personal meaning can significantly influence practice.

Quantitative research, in contrast, involves the systematic investigation of phenomena through statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques and is typically focused on measuring variables objectively rather than understanding subjective experiences. Historical research looks back at past events or contexts and does not prioritize current subjective perspectives but rather archival data and interpretive analysis. Experimental research seeks to establish cause-and-effect relationships through controlled methods that often require quantifiable data, while also not focusing on individual subjective experiences. Thus, phenomenological research stands out as the most appropriate method for examining human experiences from the participants' own perspectives.