Distinguishing Between Population and Target Population: A Mini Review

© 2023 Authors. This is an openaccess article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license. Introduction In various research studies, market analyses, and interventions, it is essential to differentiate between the population and the target population. Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for accurate data collection, analysis, and implementation of strategies. Both population and target population play distinct roles in research design, sampling, and decision-making processes.


Introduction
In various research studies, market analyses, and interventions, it is essential to differentiate between the population and the target population. Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for accurate data collection, analysis, and implementation of strategies. Both population and target population play distinct roles in research design, sampling, and decision-making processes.

Population
Population refers to the entire group of individuals or elements that share a common characteristic or feature. It represents the larger, comprehensive group that is the focus of a study or analysis [1]. In research, the population is the total set of individuals from which a sample is drawn to make inferences or generalizations [2]. For instance, in a study on the prevalence of a disease, the population would encompass all individuals who could potentially be affected by that disease within a specific geographic region or timeframe.

Epidemiological Study
In a study examining the prevalence of diabetes in a specific country, the population would encompass all individuals residing in that country, regardless of their age, gender, or other characteristics [3].

Market Research
When conducting market research to understand consumer preferences for a new product, the population would include all potential consumers within the target market. For instance, if the product is a new type of smartphone, the population would consist of all individuals who use or have the potential to use smartphones [4].

Education Study
In an educational study investigating the effects of a teaching method on student performance, the population would encompass all students within a particular educational institution or grade level [5].

Public Opinion Survey
When conducting a survey to gauge public opinion on a political issue, the population would include all eligible voters within a specific region or country [6].

Target population
On the other hand, the target population refers to a specific subset or segment within the larger population that is the primary focus of a study, intervention, or marketing strategy [1]. It represents a narrower group of individuals who possess specific characteristics or meet certain criteria [2]. The identification of the target population is based on the research question or the objectives of a particular initiative. For example, in a survey about a new product, the target population would be the specific demographic or consumer group for whom the product is intended, such as young adults aged 18-24 who are interested in fitness.

Healthcare Research
For a study examining the effectiveness of a new medication for a specific disease, the target population would consist of individuals diagnosed with that disease within a specific age range and demographic profile [1].

Social Intervention Programs
In a program aimed at reducing teenage smoking rates, the target population would be adolescents between a certain age range who are at risk of smoking or currently engage in smoking behavior [7].

Marketing Campaigns
A marketing campaign promoting a new line of athletic shoes may target individuals who are actively engaged in fitness activities and fall within a specific age and income bracket [4].

Educational Research
In a study evaluating the impact of a teaching method on academic performance, the target population could be students from a specific grade level or school district [5].

Conclusion
In this mini review, we have examined the concept of differentiating between the population and the target population in research and its importance for accurate and effective analysis. We explored the key differences between these two terms and their implications for research design, sampling methods, and generalizability of findings. By clearly distinguishing between the population and the target population, researchers can enhance the validity and applicability of their study results. One of the main findings of this study is that the population refers to the entire group or universe of individuals that the researcher is interested in studying. On the other hand, the target population represents a subset of the larger population that meets specific criteria or characteristics. Understanding this distinction is crucial because it allows researchers to focus their efforts on a specific subgroup within the larger population, which can improve the precision and relevance of their research findings. Moreover, we have highlighted the significance of defining the target population accurately. By clearly specifying the characteristics, attributes, or criteria that define the target population, researchers can ensure that their study findings are relevant and applicable to the specific group they intend to study. Failing to differentiate between the population and the target population can lead to biased or misleading conclusions that may not be generalizable to the intended group..