Categorising Subjective Perceptions of Middle-Aged Breast Cancer Patients Using Q Methodology.

Background/objectives: This study explores the characteristics of different perception types in middle-aged female breast cancer patients and proposes psychological counselling interventions tailored to each type.

Methods: The study used the Q methodology, starting with the construction of 40 Q samples and 39 P samples.

Results: We categorised middle-aged female patients' subjective perceptions of battling breast cancer into five types along a spectrum: Type 1, 'Embracing a New Life'; Type 2, 'Finally Focusing on Myself'; Type 3, 'Struggling Amidst Confusion'; Type 4, 'Withdrawing in Despair'; and Type 5, 'Pushed to the Edge of Fear'.

South Korean Early Cancer Patients' Perceptions of Difficulties in Fighting Their Disease: A Q Methodological Approach.

This study applied the Q methodology to explore breast cancer patients' perceived difficulties in their fight against the disease. We used literature analysis and in-depth interviews and selected 162 statements for the Q population. Then, we chose 40 universal and representative statements for the Q samples from the Q population.