Attitudes of Korean adults towards human dignity: A Q methodology approach

Abstract

AbstractAim: The aim of this study was to identify the perceived attitudes of Korean adults towards human dignity in order to determine the relationship of human dignity to its social and cultural background.Methods: The Q methodology research technique was used to explore perceived attitude typology on the basis of the respondents' ranking order for different statements. A convenience sampling method was used to select 40 Korean adults who were interested in human dignity to create statements. From the questionnaires, in‐depth interviews, and a literature review, a total of 158 statements was obtained. The final 34 Q samples were selected from a review by two nursing professors and a Q methodology expert. Moreover, 38 respondents participated as P samples by sorting 34 Q statements on a nine‐point normal distribution scale. The data were analyzed by using the QUANL software package.Results: The following four types of attitudes about human dignity were identified in Korea: a happiness‐oriented–self‐pursuit type, relationship‐oriented–self‐recognition type, reflection‐oriented–self‐unification type, and discrimination‐oriented–self‐maintenance type.Conclusions: The results indicate that approaches to developing human dignity education need to take this typology into account and the characteristics of the participants who fall into each category. These results provide general guidelines to understand Korean values for professional practice in various healthcare settings.