In what situations should PHP developers consider using print_r() to debug their code?

PHP developers should consider using print_r() to debug their code when they need to quickly inspect the contents of an array, object, or variable. This function can help developers easily visualize the structure and values of complex data types, making it useful for troubleshooting issues with data manipulation or variable assignment. By using print_r(), developers can efficiently identify problems in their code and make necessary adjustments.

```php
$data = array('apple', 'banana', 'cherry');
print_r($data);
```

In this example, the print_r() function is used to display the contents of the $data array, allowing the developer to see the values stored within the array. This can help identify any discrepancies or unexpected values that may be causing issues in the code.