Q-Methodology as a Phenomenological Research Method

Abstract

This paper aims to introduce Q-methodology in phenomenological research. We discuss the process of using the methodology and demonstrate Q-methodology’s distinctive features and its particular approach to researching the range and diversity of subjective understandings, beliefs and experiences. Q methodology is particularly suitable for identifying commonality and diversity and has a powerful capacity for thematic identification and analysis. In our view, Q- methodology can make a contribution to expanding the repertoire of phenomenological research methods available to psychotherapists. In the final section of the paper we provide an example of a research project using Q-methodology. The project aims to increase our understanding of therapists’ subjective attitudes, beliefs and experiences in working with clients with problems of addiction. Using Q-methodology it was possible to construct a unique configuration of each participant’s engagement with the topic, and at the same time to identify four distinctive factors, indicating patterns of divergent understandings of addiction. Each factor is shown to be a multifaceted construct which does not conform to a priori conceptualizations.