Q Methodology and Qualitative Research

Abstract

Q methodology combines the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative methods, and its use in research has been facilitated by recent developments in computer software. Q methodology is briefly illustrated in a single-case study of the subjective experience of health care, and the data generated are used to illustrate the QMethod package, a menu-driven freeware program for mainframes and PCs that facilitates Q-sort data entry, correlation and factor analysis, theoretical rotation of factors, and calculation of factor scores. Instructions are provided for obtaining QMethod, for subscribing to a journal devoted to Q methodology, and for joining the Q methodology electronic discussion group.