Qualitative Significance as First-Class Evidence in the Design and Assessment of Public Policies: The Vital Plan for Social Inclusion in Extremadura, Spain

Abstract

In recent years, there have been increasing demands for public policy design to be guided by empirical evidence, especially in programmes addressing social inclusion. In this scenario, qualitative approaches are often subordinated to the macro results obtained from quantitative instruments. Based on the results of a mixed-methods RCT research design, this article explores how qualitative research tools might provide qualitative significance – information as valuable as numerical data obtained using standardised scales. This proposal is based on the results of a research project addressing problems associated with barriers to employment and mental health among its participants. The impact of gender-sensitive issues – i.e., the unequal distribution of care responsibilities – or the development of mental health problems such as anxiety are often underestimated in studies based purely on statistical data. Our approach underscores the value of the testimonies and narratives obtained through qualitative tools – e.g., semi-structured interviews and focus groups – and how these can provide first-class evidence for the design and impact assessment of public policies tackling social inclusion.