A Q-Methodological Study of the Kubler-Ross Stage Theory

Abstract

This study investigated the correspondence between the stage changes hypothesized by the Kubler-Ross theory and the perception of the course of illness by seriously ill patients and their spouse. A thirty-six item structured Q-sort was administered on two occasions to two couples, in each the wife had a potentially terminal medical diagnosis. Participants described the patient's perception of the illness at the present time and as it had been at four other times since the diagnosis. The Q-sorts of each couple were intercorrelated and submitted to Q-factor analysis. The results supported the use of Q-methodology as a research procedure for investigations of terminal illness. Factors which emerged did not reveal the Kubler-Ross structure in the Q-sort nor was there evidence of stages. Implications for the validity of the Kubler-Ross theory were discussed.