Qualitative Psychology, Vol 12(3), Oct 2025, 289-296; doi:10.1037/qup0000344
The scientific community has expressed grave concerns about the large-scale defunding of research focused on developing interventions and resources for minoritized populations, and the consequences of these policy decisions on the health and well-being of both the nation and the globe. In this editorial, I summarize some of these concerns and then consider the role of qualitative research as an affirmation of minoritized experiences. I argue that there are four routes via which qualitative research affirms minoritized experiences and supports people to understand them: (a) Qualitative research uncovers underlying mechanisms that were not hypothesized before but can improve interventions and access to them. (b) Qualitative research provides compelling, narrative-based information that counters harmful beliefs and myths about minoritized populations. (c) Qualitative methodology inherently values epistemic privilege and diversity of experience within the phenomena studied. (d) Qualitative research helps people to see their commonalities with others and their shared humanity. I provide illustrative examples for each of these points as a way to show the vital importance of these methods in this moment. In conclusion, I thank the reviewers of articles whose contributions have supported our journal this year and the thriving of qualitative research in psychology. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)