A Study on the Subjectivity of Graduate Counseling Students’ Perception of Sandplay Therapy Using Q Methodology

Abstract

This study investigated the perception of Sandplay therapy among graduate students majoring in counseling using Q methodology. Initially, 31 statements were extracted through literature research, and in-depth interviews were conducted with five graduate students majoring in counseling, resulting in 40 Q-samples. Subsequently, 28 graduate students majoring in counseling were selected as P samples, and Q classification was performed on them. The collected data were analyzed using the PC-QUANL program, leading to the identification of four types: “familiar positive inquiry type” (Type 1), “unfamiliar neutral avoidance type” (Type 2), “unfamiliar neutral inquiry type” (Type 3), and “familiar neutral inquiry type” (Type 4). Type 1 participants were attracted to Sandplay therapy, demonstrating a familiar and positive attitude and expressing a willingness to learn more about it. In contrast, Type 2 participants perceived no significant difference between Sandplay therapy and other counseling techniques. Type 3 participants were unfamiliar with Sandplay therapy and lacked knowledge about its attributes and advantages compared to other counseling techniques. Type 4 participants, although familiar with Sandplay therapy, also lacked awareness of its specific attributes and advantages. The study's findings are expected to serve as fundamental data for the future improvement and development of Sandplay therapy training for graduate students majoring in counseling. By shedding light on the various perceptions among students, this research can contribute to enhancing Sandplay therapy education and practice within counseling programs.