Exploring the Subjective Perceptions of Community Activity Experiences among New Middle-Aged: A Q-Methodological Study

This study utilized Q-methodology to identify the perception types and characteristics of community activity experiences among new middle-aged adults, whose importance is growing as society enters a super-aged era. Thirty-four Q-statements were constructed through a literature review and focus group interviews (FGI). Twenty-eight new middle-aged adults with experience in community activities were selected as P-samples, and Q-sorting and in-depth interviews were conducted. The collected data were analyzed using the QUANL program. As a result, three types of perceptions regarding community activity experiences of new middle-aged adults were identified. The eigenvalues for Types 1, 2, and 3 were 8.1395, 2.5283, and 2.3309, respectively, with a cumulative explained variance of .4642, yielding significant results. The identified perception types are as follows” the ‘Institution-Based Growth Seeking Type,’ which perceives active financial and administrative support from institutions as most crucial for revitalizing community activities; the ‘Efficiency-Seeking Practical Benefit-Oriented Type,’ which recognizes community activities as beneficial for practical economic gains and development, such as an employment or entrepreneurship linkage; and the ‘Self-Directed Growth Seeking Type,’ which views community activities as a significant pathway for new personal challenges and successful second-life planning. By comprehending the subjective perceptions of new middle-aged adults concerning their community activity experiences, this study provides foundational data for developing tailored community policies and programs that empower them to achieve psychological stability, find meaning in life, prepare for successful aging, and enhance their overall quality of life.