How to use q-methodology in dream research: Assumptions, procedures and benefits
September 1, 2010 DOI: 10.1037/a0020422 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Qualitative |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that Q-methodology, by combining subjective sorting and written descriptions, can identify heterogeneous dream types in dream report studies. |
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.