Exploring attitudes and values of African American women toward outdoor activities: A Q-method study

Abstract

Scope and method of study: Q Methodology was used to explore attitudes and values of African American women. Q Methodology was used because of its ability to illuminate subjectivity, for this study to foster new potential categories of African American women's outdoor activities. Q-sort was utilized to collect data from the P-set. The researcher provided a set of 45 statements (Q-set) for each participant, the Q-set developed from prior interviews, literature, YouTube, Facebook, and magazines. Purposive and snowballing techniques were utilized for participant selection.

Findings and conclusions. Factor analysis unmasked three factors. The three factors are viewpoints from the subject sample (P-set) responses. The following viewpoints were revealed: (a) Self-Soothers who enjoy outdoor activities, and find connection with nature a spiritual experience; (b) Metropolitan woman view outdoor activities less important and are more interested with personal appearance; (c) Social Recreationist delight in outdoor activities, this factor rather experience outdoor activities with a group. The result of this research study offers a snapshot into a variety of perspectives within African American women outdoor experiences.