Contextualization is a central framework for all qualitative research. Through contextualization, a researcher is able to take small instances or variables and extrapolate the variables to define or comment on a larger social problem.
For example, if a researcher interviews drug addicts and gang members within an inner city area, the researcher may be able to use their insights and experiences to describe social phenomena. The commentary may lead to an explanation of how the urban center creates or condones certain lifestyle choices, or how political corruption and lack of investment has led to the decay of cities.
