Saturation in qualitative research refers to the stage at which incoming data consistently reinforces existing themes rather than introducing new ones, indicating that the sample has reached sufficient depth for analysis. Researchers use saturation as a methodological benchmark to determine when data collection can reasonably stop without compromising the credibility or completeness of findings. In practice, saturation is reached at different points depending on the research question, participant diversity, and the complexity of the topic being explored. Recognizing saturation accurately requires ongoing thematic analysis during fieldwork, not just a retrospective review of transcripts after all interviews are complete.