Exploring [Human] Subjectivity Using Q-Methodology: A Powerful Research Tool for Exploring Hidden Meanings in Social Work and other Practices

Q-methodology provides researchers with a systematic and rigorous quantitative means for studying human subjectivity (self-reference), utilising powerful statistical applications of correlational and factor analytical... [ view full abstract ]

Q-methodology provides researchers with a systematic and rigorous quantitative means for studying human subjectivity (self-reference), utilising powerful statistical applications of correlational and factor analytical techniques. When used in conjunction with qualitative methods it provides a powerful means of exploring self-referent perspectives on almost any topic.

The use of Q-factor analytical techniques to research social work and other welfare-related practices is relatively rare. Factor analysis has a focus on the identification of latent variables within the context of correlational studies. Q-factor analysis, as an inversion of traditional R-factor analysis, treats individuals as variables rather than specific, isolated traits and thus functionally identifies itself as a holistic methodology. In this way, researchers can identify latent variables that may serve to explain a range of phenomenon and enhance theory building hitherto inaccessible to more traditional research approaches.

The use of Q-methodology within the context of a mixed-methods paradigm enables researchers to focus on superordinate ideas and concepts gleaned from a consideration of perspectives from all sides, thus transcending the paradigms debate. Located within the philosophical and theoretical domains of American Pragmatism, Aristotelian philosophy and Quantum theory, Q- methodology encourages the use of abduction and more phronetically-oriented approaches to social science research.

The presentation will illustrate this approach by reference to a study of knowledge creation, theory-building and knowledge use by operational social workers working within a range of settings. Q-sort techniques, Q-factor analysis and semi-structured interviews to facilitate data triangulation will be shown to provide researchers with functional tools with which to reveal previously hidden subjectivities in the context of social work and other human-service practices. The range of applications is almost limitless and this approach has the potential to be of immense value to the research community.