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Qualitative research uses a fundamentally inductive approach to theory. Even the most rigorous forms of grounded, qualitative research begin with the accumulation of data and then form a theory based upon an analysis of interview responses and other forms of subject input. This was the case with Abas (et al. 2013), who first interviewed and questioned victims of trafficking in Moldova and then derived a context-specific theory in relation to that information. In qualitative research, ultimately the theory is used as a general guide with which to view human experience. Experience is always prioritized over theory.

Qualitative research is also more specific and judicious in the applications of the theory than is quantitative research. Abas (et al. 2013) and Duong (2012) specifically focus on singular countries in their studies. Rather than creating a general theory that is universally applicable to human trafficking, they began with the supposition that trafficking can manifest itself in very different ways, depending on the nation and specific economic and political factors. The main 'theory' behind this proposition is the value of multiculturalism. Of all three articles, the only article which could be said to show any strong emphasis on theory is Duong (2012)'s gender-based analysis of how the Vietnamese government's response to trafficking has been strongly influenced by the fact that the majority of victims are presumed to be female. Duong uses a feminist analysis, presuming that gender is a useful construct with which to view both trafficking and political responses to trafficking.

Qualitative research is founded on the assumption that difference rather than similarity is of interest to the researchers and rather than trying to limit variables that might affect the study like a quantitative researcher must do when framing an experiment, it takes into account a broad range of such variables. A quantitative researcher must create similar experimental and control groups to ensure that all components which affect the study are limited; a qualitative researcher is attempting to maximize the depth and breadth of knowledge on a particular topic. Even Hepburn & Simon (2010) who use a great deal of statistical