Quantitative research deals with numbers and statistics, while qualitative research deals with words and meanings; both methods are important for gaining knowledge in research and require the collection of data. Quantitative methods allow you to test a hypothesis by collecting and analyzing data such as that used in graphs, and are used to confirm theories, while qualitative methods allow you to explore ideas and experiences in depth on topics that are not well understood (Gray, Grove, & Sutherland, 2017). Depression in adolescents is a major risk factor for suicide, the second-to-third leading cause of death in this age group, with more than half of the suicide victims reported to have a depressive disorder at time of death (Thapar, Collishaw, Pine, & Thapar, 2012).  Conducting a research study on children with depression, methods of treatment, and outcomes would lend itself to both quantitative and qualitative designs.  Descriptions of mood such as depression and anxiety are variables that are complex and not directly observable and are considered qualitative; meanwhile the data on children only taking antidepressants and those only going to counseling, and suicide rates can be measured making it quantitative.

Quantitative research involves the use of numbers and statistics to analyze data and test hypotheses, while qualitative research focuses on understanding meanings and exploring ideas and experiences in depth. Both methods are important for gaining knowledge in research and can be used to study various topics, including depression in adolescents.

Depression in adolescents is a significant risk factor for suicide, which is the second-to-third leading cause of death in this age group. Studies have shown that more than half of the individuals who die by suicide have a depressive disorder at the time of death. Given the seriousness of this issue, conducting research on children with depression, the methods of treatment, and the outcomes is crucial.

In such a research study, both quantitative and qualitative designs can be utilized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Qualitative methods can be used to explore the subjective experiences of children with depression and their perspectives on treatment. This could involve in-depth interviews, focus groups, and analysis of personal narratives. By examining the lived experiences of these individuals, researchers can gain insights into the emotional and psychological impact of depression and the effectiveness of different treatment approaches.

On the other hand, quantitative methods can be employed to collect and analyze data that can be measured and quantified. For example, researchers can collect data on the number of children taking antidepressant medications, the dosage levels, and the duration of treatment. This quantitative data can then be analyzed to determine the effectiveness of antidepressants in managing depression in adolescents. Similarly, researchers can collect data on the number of children attending counseling sessions, the frequency of sessions, and the outcomes of counseling. This quantitative data can be analyzed to assess the impact and efficacy of counseling as a treatment option.

In addition, quantitative methods can also be used to investigate suicide rates among adolescents with depression. By examining statistical data on suicides among this population, researchers can identify patterns, risk factors, and potential interventions to prevent suicide.

Overall, a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods can provide a more comprehensive understanding of depression in adolescents, the impact of different treatment approaches, and the factors contributing to suicide rates. By utilizing both methods, researchers can gather and analyze data that is both objective and subjective, thus enabling a holistic understanding of this complex issue.

In conclusion, quantitative and qualitative research methods are both essential for gaining knowledge in research. When studying depression in adolescents, a combination of both methods can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue. Quantitative methods can be used to collect and analyze measurable data on treatment approaches and suicide rates, while qualitative methods can explore the subjective experiences and perspectives of individuals with depression. By employing both methods, researchers can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this field and inform interventions and strategies for prevention and treatment.