title: Sampling for qualitative research.
abstract: The probability sampling techniques used for quantitative studies are rarely appropriate when conducting qualitative research. This article considers and explains the differences between the two approaches and describes three broad categories of naturalistic sampling: convenience, judgement and theoretical models. The principles are illustrated with practical examples from the author's own research.
authors.affiliation: Institute of General Practice, University of Exeter, Postgraduate Medical School, UK.
authors.forename: M N
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Marshall
mesh_terms: D005194:Family Practice; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008511:Medicine; D012494:Sampling Studies; D013038:Specialization