What type of research method focuses on collecting data about subjects without establishing relationships?

Descriptive research is centered on systematically collecting data to provide an accurate representation of a phenomenon without the researcher interacting with or establishing relationships with the subjects being studied. This method seeks to describe characteristics or behaviors of a population by observing and measuring variables in a non-intrusive manner. The information gathered is typically quantitative or qualitative but does not involve manipulation by the researcher.

In contrast, causal research seeks to identify cause-and-effect relationships, which inherently requires a degree of interaction and the establishment of conditions between variables. Applied research aims to address specific practical issues and often involves interventions or interactions to implement change. Correlational research investigates the relationship between variables but often requires the researcher to engage with the subjects to a certain extent to measure those variables effectively. Descriptive research remains distinct in its objective to simply observe and describe without such active engagement.