The Snowball Sampling Strategy in the Field of Social Sciences. Contexts and Considerations.

Abstract

This article discusses the snowball sampling strategy that has been successfully used for decades in research in the field of social sciences. The focus of this article is only on the application of the strategy in qualitative research, although it can be employed in quantitative research too. Despite its limitations and debatable applicability in some cases, it is methodologically justified and considered very effective in reaching hard-to-reach populations. Referring to the methodological literature, research in which it was adopted and our own experience, we reflect on the contexts and controversies that arise around its implementation.