Which method is most commonly used in determining public attitudes and behavior in descriptive research?

Surveys with closed-ended questions are the most commonly used method for determining public attitudes and behavior in descriptive research due to their ability to quantify data and provide statistically valid results. This method allows researchers to gather information from a large number of respondents systematically, enabling them to analyze patterns and trends in public opinion. Closed-ended questions facilitate straightforward data analysis, as responses are limited to predefined options, making it easier to compare and interpret the results.

In contrast, other methods like focus groups may provide in-depth qualitative insights but typically involve smaller sample sizes and are less suitable for generalizing findings to a larger population. Case studies focus intensively on specific instances or individuals, which can limit their applicability to wider contexts. Content analysis, while useful for examining communication and media outputs, does not directly measure public attitudes and behaviors as effectively as surveys do. Collectively, these factors highlight why surveys with closed-ended questions are the preferred choice in descriptive research for understanding public attitudes and behaviors.