Research with Impact: Qualitative approaches to social and behaviour change

Description

This special issue seeks to demonstrate how qualitative and interpretive research can drive meaningful social and behavioural change, particularly for underrepresented and marginalised groups. Rather than relying solely on quantitative metrics, the collection aims to show how deep qualitative inquiry uncovers the psychological and cultural factors that shape human behaviour and can inform ethical, inclusive interventions that address complex social problems.

The call reflects growing recognition that qualitative research must evolve to engage participatory and inclusive frameworks, especially when working with neurodivergent, trauma-affected, and marginalised populations. The special issue responds to an urgent need for research methodologies that empower rather than merely study neglected communities, drawing on approaches such as netnography and community-led participatory methods to create transformative social impact.

Potential topics

• Present innovative qualitative approaches to design and/or evaluate social marketing initiatives
• Develop qualitative approaches for inclusive research
• Describe participatory approaches (e.g. action research, co-design)
• Engage with difficult, sensitive, or stigmatised topics, developing sensemaking through qualitative methods
• Reflect on the ethics of participatory inclusive methods for behaviour and social change
• Develop longitudinal qualitative frameworks to demonstrate the social impact of ethical interventions and inclusive social marketing strategies