Snowball sampling refers to which of the following definitions?

Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling technique that is particularly useful in research contexts where finding participants may be difficult, such as specific or hard-to-reach populations. The correct definition describes how participants are recruited through referrals from existing participants. In this method, an initial subject is identified, and then they help researchers find other participants by referring them. This process continues, creating a "snowball" effect where the sample size can increase exponentially as more individuals within the target group connect through their networks.

This approach is valuable in exploratory research, where existing databases or lists of participants may not exist, and it allows researchers to tap into social networks to access potential subjects. Additionally, it can enhance the trust and willingness of participants to engage in the study, as they may be more comfortable joining a study referred by someone they know.

In contrast, recruitment based on random selection involves ensuring every individual in a population has an equal chance of being chosen, which is not the case in snowball sampling. Selecting committee members typically refers to a structured process that may not involve participant referrals at all. Lastly, claiming a strategy guarantees participation is misleading; snowball sampling does not assure participation from referred individuals, as they still have the option to decline.