Which type of research combines elements of focus groups and in-depth interviews?

The correct answer reflects the combination of techniques found in friendship groups, which can indeed blend elements of focus groups and in-depth interviews. Friendship groups, also known in some contexts as "friendship-based focus groups," leverage the established trust and rapport among participants to elicit deeper insights. This method allows respondents to feel more comfortable sharing their experiences, opinions, and emotions, similar to what might occur in an in-depth interview. The informal setting encourages candid dialogue, making it useful for gathering qualitative data that can inform advertising strategies.

Ethnographic research involves observing social interactions in natural settings rather than relying on discussions, while survey research typically centers around structured questionnaires aimed at collecting quantitative data. Strategic planning focuses on long-term goals and objectives rather than the qualitative insights that can be derived from group discussions. Hence, friendship groups effectively merge the open-ended discussion style of focus groups with the personal storytelling aspect of in-depth interviews, making them a unique method in qualitative research.