Subjective constructions of well-being in patients, carers and the general public: a Q-method study

Abstract Background Views of individuals on well-being are inherently diverse and shaped by personal experience and conditions. Limited studies have directly addressed this heterogeneity, as most research and assessment tools focus on a generic preference of well-being aspects. The overall aim of this study was to explore similarities and differences in the subjective construction of well-being outcome, among different groups of populations, including patients, carers and the healthy general publics. Methods This study used Q-methodology. We developed a list of 34 Q-sample items that can be used in the Q-sort ranking activity to elicit participants preference. We collected a total of 151 Q-sort data for use in the standard by-person factor analytic procedure designed for Q-methodology. We conducted post-sort interviews and obtained qualitative information about why they ranked the statements in certain ways, which can help the interpretation of the output data. Results We were able to identify four distinct viewpoints: Factor 1: Eat, sleep and other basic needs; Factor 2: Positive relationships, belongings and well-being; Factor 3: My own physical and mental health first; Factor 4: Physical health is the foundation of well-being. While Factor 4 was equally valued across all three categories of participants, Factor 2, which places a high value on positive relationships, was predominantly represented by carers. In contrast, patients tended to emphasise Factor 3, which focuses on individual feelings-particularly emotional and physical distress. Items related to pain, discomfort, and sleep were consistently identified as the most important across all four identified views. Conclusions This study presents the similarities and differences of the subjective constructions of well-being across patients, carers and the healthy general publics. It implies the variances of preferences in evaluating well-being, and such variances can consequently affect the measurement and evaluation of well-being. Key messages • This study revealed important variations in the perspectives of patients, carers, and the healthy general population regarding what they perceive as essential to well-being. • It therefore presents the importance of tailoring well-being assessments to reflect the unique needs and perspectives of diverse populations.