Mixed-methods:

OpenResearch's Unconditional Cash Study encompasses six rounds of qualitative interviews — five during the cash transfer program and one a year after the end of the program — to better understand the mechanisms of impact, individuals’ experiences, their decision-making processes, and the constraints they face. A subset of research participants in the program were randomly selected for these qualitative interviews, designed to cover many of the key research topics in the quantitative surveys in depth. 

The initial round of qualitative interviews delved into the circumstances of participants before they began receiving monthly cash transfers. In each subsequent round of interviews, qualitative researchers spoke with participants over the phone to understand changes to their goals, living situations, finances, employment, social networks, and health overtime.

Quantitative research examines statistical relationships to uncover population-wide trends and unexpected outcomes. Qualitative research explores experiences and perspectives of individual participants. Insight into specific situations informs future research by identifying themes and developing additional questions. 

By employing this mixed-methods research design, we create rigorous, comprehensive research that unpacks the effects of unconditional cash transfers on individuals and their families in the United States. The data gleaned from qualitative research is not only intrinsically valuable but also helps guide quantitative researchers by illuminating nuance, generating new questions, and explaining the stories behind survey results, while maintaining research integrity.