Q methodology is proposed as a technique especially suited for an empirical approach to the psychoanalytic study of political subjectivity.

Political Psychology

Although early studies in political psychology were patterned after the psychoanalytic model, the psychology of politics as a behavioral science has become dominated by extensive analysis and survey methods. The initial emphasis place upon subjectivity has been set aside. To be sure, sociological and social psychological theories are appropriate in many circumstances; however, political psychologists must be careful when their methods are used to make inferences about the internal framework of the political actor. This paper presents a plea for a return to political subjectivity and the psychoanalytic paradigm as a proper domain of political psychology. Q methodology is proposed as a technique especially suited for an empirical approach to the psychoanalytic study of political subjectivity. Selected case studies illustrate its theory and technique in psychoanalytic applications.

Q methodology is proposed as a technique especially suited for an empirical approach to the psychoanalytic study of political subjectivity.

Q Methodology in Political Psychology: Theory and Technique in Psychoanalytic Applications'