Types of Purposive Sampling Techniques with Their Examples and Application in Qualitative Research Studies

Abstract

The aim of the article was to review the purposive sampling types as discussed by Patton (1990) and exemplify them in line with the current trends in the studies being conducted today. The sixteen purposive sampling techniques discussed include extreme case sampling, deviant case sampling, Intensity sampling, maximum variation sampling, homogeneous sampling, typical case sampling, stratified purposeful sampling, critical case sampling, snowball or chain sampling, criterion sampling, theory-based sampling, opportunistic sampling, random purposeful sampling, sampling politically important cases, convenience sampling and mixed purposeful sampling. The article has further guided on how these are used in different topics to enable upcoming researchers be able to apply them responsibly and effectively in their studies.