Descriptive theories primarily focus on what aspect of individuals or groups?

Descriptive theories are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of individuals or groups by summarizing shared characteristics and identifying attributes that describe their experiences, behaviors, or conditions. Unlike predictive theories, which aim to forecast future behaviors based on specific data patterns, or explanatory theories that seek to establish causal relationships, descriptive theories do not evaluate the reasons behind phenomena or attempt to establish cause and effect. They serve as the foundational building blocks for further exploration, starting with what is known about a population or phenomenon. By categorizing and summarizing these characteristics, descriptive theories enable researchers and practitioners to formulate hypotheses and identify areas for further investigation, leading to a richer understanding of the subject in question.