This Policy Research Brief explores the strengths of qualitative research and the types of information it can make available to policymakers concerned with issues affecting persons with disabilities. The naturalistic methodology employed in qualitative research is described. Three specific studies using qualitative methodology are excerpted and the possible applications of these studies' findings to policymaking and planning suggested. First, a study of family support, "All We Need Is a Break--The Lopez Family" (by Susan O'Connor, who spent time with the family over a 2-year period) recounts the family's views of the various agencies and workers involved with them. Policy implications include the need to allow for greater control by families in the selection of workers. Second, a study of supported employment, "The Social Integration of Supported Employees" (by David Hagner) describes interactions in seven supported employment settings between workers with disabilities and nondisabled workers. Policy implications include diversification of supported employment services from the job coach model. Third, a study of social relationships of persons with disabilities, "Affectionate Bonds" (by Zana Marie Lutfiyya) looks at the meanings of friendships between four pairs of individuals with and without disabilities. Policy implications include removal of barriers to natural development of friendships. (51 references) (DB)