How to use q-methodology in dream research: Assumptions, procedures and benefits

Q-methodology, a 'Qualiquantological' approach that combines qualitative and quantitative techniques, can reveal heterogeneity in dream reports by having dreamers sort the subjective features of their own dreams and provide written descriptions. This method identifies shared patterns of subjectivity across a large dataset, offering an alternative to standard quantitative methods that treat dreams as uniform. The paper outlines the advantages of Q-methodology for dream research and the resources needed to conduct such a study, serving as a preliminary explanation before presenting the first study to apply this approach.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Current quantitative methods of approaching dream research, which dominate published material about dreams, have led to descriptions of dreams as homogenous events. Q-methodology is an approach that may identify heterogeneity in dream report studies and subsequent dream types based upon the subjectivity of the dream experience. Q-methodology is described as a "Qualiquantological" approach to dream analysis which maximizes the use of statistics in a qualitative way (Stenner & Stainton-Rogers, 2004). "Q" is distinguished from other methods because the dreamer sorts the subjectivity of the dream they are reporting and provides a written description of the dream; these are used together to identify shared patterns of subjectivity within a large data set. The advantages of using Q-methodology are outlined and the resources necessary to conduct a study are shared. The aim of this paper is to present a preliminary explanation prior to presenting the first study to use Q-methodology in dream research. © 2010 American Psychological Association.