What type of research seeks to analyze public opinions and behaviors through structured interviews?

Survey research is the type of research that focuses on gathering data from a predefined group of respondents through structured interviews or questionnaires. This method is designed specifically to analyze public opinions, behaviors, and demographics by asking participants a series of standardized questions, allowing for quantitative analysis of the results.

In survey research, the structured nature of the questions helps ensure that data can be collected systematically and compared across different respondents. This approach allows researchers to glean insights into trends, preferences, and public sentiment on various issues. Surveys can be conducted in various formats, including online, face-to-face, or over the phone, but they consistently aim to quantify opinions and behaviors to establish patterns that can inform decision-making or further research.

The other types of research mentioned, while valuable, do not specifically emphasize analyzing public opinions and behaviors through structured interviews the way survey research does. Exploratory research is more about exploring new areas of study without preconceived notions. Descriptive research focuses on providing a detailed account of a situation or demographic but may not involve structured interviews. Qualitative research, although it can involve interviews, is more concerned with understanding deeper meanings and insights rather than quantifying opinions in a structured way. Hence, survey research is the most fitting category for the focus of the question.