Which of the following is an example of motivational research?

The choice of focus groups discussing product appeal as an example of motivational research is accurate because this method directly delves into the beliefs, feelings, and attitudes of consumers toward a product. Motivational research seeks to uncover the underlying motivations that drive consumer behavior, which is best achieved through interactive and qualitative methods like focus groups.

In focus groups, participants can express their thoughts and opinions in detail, allowing researchers to gain insights about emotional and psychological triggers that influence their purchasing decisions. This qualitative data is crucial for understanding the 'why' behind consumer preferences, which is the essence of motivational research.

In contrast, market analysis reports, comparative industry studies, and statistical data analysis typically focus on quantifiable data, trends, and benchmarks without necessarily capturing the deeper motivations of consumers. These methods are valuable for understanding market dynamics and numerical trends, but they do not provide the same depth of psychological insight as focus groups.