What characterizes qualitative research compared to quantitative research?

Qualitative research is characterized by its emphasis on understanding human experiences, behaviors, and the meanings individuals attach to phenomena, which often involves collecting subjective data. This approach tends to generate theories by interpreting the nuances of participants' feelings, thoughts, and interactions, allowing for a deeper insight into the complexities of social reality.

In contrast to quantitative research, which primarily deals with numerical data and statistical analysis to quantify variables, qualitative research seeks to explore the underlying reasons and motivations that drive certain behaviors or opinions. This characteristic allows qualitative research to provide rich, detailed insights that can help to generate new hypotheses and theories.

The other options mention characteristics related to quantitative research methods which are focused on quantification and statistical validation rather than the interpretive and exploratory nature of qualitative research. Therefore, the selection of the option about generating theories from subjective data accurately reflects the fundamental essence of qualitative research.