In 2024, this journal published a paper by Hamilton Kennedy highlighting the dismissive responses often experienced by people who hold beliefs that have been labelled as delusional. Hamilton argued that this dismissal constitutes a form of epistemic injustice. We received a number of responses to this article, and decided to interview the author about the wider research project they are engaged in. Hamilton has developed innovative qualitative research methods to explore the history and meanings of beliefs that have been labelled as “delusions”, and to collaborate with research participants in non-pathologising ways. In this interview with David Denborough, Hamilton reflects on some of the practical and ethical considerations involved in conducting research with people whose beliefs have been labelled delusional. They set out how their approach differs from much research in psychiatric contexts, favouring a stance of solidarity, care and reciprocal trust.
Key words: qualitative research; epistemology; delusion; paranoia; schizophrenia; hallucination; narrative practice
Kennedy, H., & Denborough, D. (2025). Researching delusions: A search for epistemic justice: An interview with Hamilton Kennedy. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, (2), 116–122. https://doi.org/10.4320/GPQZ2492
