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Doing Q Methodological Research
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Doing Q Methodological Research
Theory, Method & Interpretation


April 2012 | 248 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
This book introduces the theory and practice of Q methodology. The authors explain the origins of Q methodology in factor analysis and the R methodological procedures, and go on to explain the theory behind Q as set out by the method's early pioneers. They also look at how Q deals with issues such as subjectivity, abduction and constructivism. The book shows readers how to set up, run, and analyze an effective study using Q methodology. Illustrated with examples and case studies throughout, the book offers advice on highly practical issues such as the conduct of fieldwork, working with participants, and good data management.

 
PART ONE: THEORY
 
Introducing Q Methodology: The Inverted-Factor Technique
 
Theory and Q Methodology: From Stephenson to Constructionism
 
PART TWO: METHOD
 
Basic Design Issues: Research Questions and Q Sets
 
Doing the Fieldwork: Participants, Materials and Procedure
 
Understanding the Analytic Process (1): Factor Extraction
 
Understanding the Analytic Process (2): Factor Rotation and the Preparation of Factor Arrays
 
PART THREE: INTERPRETATION
 
Factor Interpretation
 
Writing and Publishing Q Methodological Papers
 
Appendices
General Instructions for Completing a Q Methodological Study

 
Conducting an Analysis Using PQ Method: A Step-by-step Guide (plus an explanation of the PQ Method output or .lis file

 
First Draft Crib Sheets (for study factors 2, 3, 4 and 5)

 

A lovely introduction to Q methodology which is not commonly taught across UG programmes of study. Is helpfully illustrated with examples and case studies.

Mrs Sarah McNamara
Dept Nursing & Primary Care Practice, Liverpool John Moores University
April 25, 2024

The book is very clear and concise, plus it is fun to read. It is written in a way which provides the theoretical background first and then builds on the practical guidance.

Dr Robin Bell
Worcester Business School, Worcester University
April 1, 2016

A comprehensive book detailing the essentials of Q methodology for novice researchers in the field and also for those with more advanced qualitative researching skills wanting to update their knowledge and skill set in Q methodology. An easy to follow read for undergraduates students.

Miss Rebecca Healey
School of Social Sciences and Law, University of Teesside
November 25, 2015

Q methodology won't necessarily be employed by many people in their early research efforts, but for those adventurous enough to give it a try, this book is invaluable. It's very readable, clear and comprehensive. I don't know of any other book on the topic that falls into this same "one stop reading" category.

Mr Bill Green
Secondary Education, Wolverhampton University
April 2, 2015

This is an excellent book that is much needed with regards to this particular methodology. I teach Q methodology here at the University of Worcester and this book will now be our core text.

Dr Derek Farrell
Department of Psychology, Worcester University
October 1, 2014

THis is a fantastic book, absolutely essential to anyone considering doing Q methods based research. there are almost no training courses available in this method, but with this book I felt confidant in undertaking research in this adn will use it as a tool for training my students

Dr Kirsty Kiezebrink
Public Helath Nutrition, Aberdeen University
April 30, 2014

This is the best text I have read on the subject of Q methodology, both at an introductory level and for researchers wanting to shape their craft.

Mr Kieran Balloo
Department of Psychology, Roehampton Univ.
March 27, 2014

As someone new to this approach, I found this book comprehensive in its guidance and explanation of Q methodology. It gives useful, practical advice on how to design and conduct a research study using this technique and deals with some fairly difficult concepts in a way that was easy to follow.

Professor Alison Kington
Institute of Education, Worcester Univ.
January 14, 2014

This is an excellent book for anyone considering Q-sort. It includes a step by step guide to the analysis and the use of software to make sense of sorts

Dr Garry Squires
School of Education, Manchester University
November 20, 2013

Good resource

Mrs Emma Barton
Department of Applied Psychology, University of Cumbria
November 11, 2013

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter One