Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

Using Q Methodology to evaluate a day service for younger adult stroke survivors

Corr, S., Capdevila, R. and Phillips, C. (2003) Using Q Methodology to evaluate a day service for younger adult stroke survivors. Operant Subjectivity: The International Journal of Q Methodology. 27(1), pp. 1-23. 0193-2713.

Item Type: Article
Abstract: Abstract: Q methodology was used in programme evaluation of the Cardiff Day Service, which was launched in July 1995 specifically for adult stroke survivors 18-55 years of age. The aim of the Service was to offer participants an opportunity to identify and pursue meaningful and realistic situations within the community that would enable them to meet their personal aspirations, and develop their full potential. The purpose of this study is its application as a tool for understanding, evaluating, and extending or redirecting this Day Service. A 41-item Q set pertaining to perceived benefits of the Cardiff Day Service was sorted by 18 Helpers, yielding five factors (psychological gains, social confidence, encourages communication, respite for carers, and sense of purpose). The Q set sorted by Users was reduced to 33 items, after pilot testing indicated that Users could not concentrate long enough to complete the longer sort. Seventeen User Q sorts resulted in six factors (new experiences, feeling valued, social recovery, security, prevents isolation, and general recovery). The evidence from this aspect of the programme evaluation suggests that the Service is a welcome initiative. Reconsideration of its structure led to a suggestion to establish two distinct branches, one to provide social support and another for rehabilitation support. Q methodology can continue to provide important input into the evolution of the Service by addressing questions about how best to meet the needs of pre-retirement individuals after stroke
Additional Information: UoA 12, RAE 2008
Subjects: R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology > RM930 Rehabilitation therapy
R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology > RM735 Occupational therapy
R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC388.5 Cerebrovascular diseases. Stroke
Creators: Corr, Susan, Capdevila, Rose and Phillips, Ceri
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Health & Society > Occupational Therapy
Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Occupational Therapy
Date: 1 October 2003
Date Type: Publication
Page Range: pp. 1-23
Journal or Publication Title: Operant Subjectivity: The International Journal of Q Methodology
Volume: 27
Number: 1
Language: English
ISSN: 0193-2713
Status: Published / Disseminated
Refereed: Yes
URI: http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/25

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