Nurse Image Perceived by High School Students: Q Methodological Approach

Purpose This study aimed to identify and classify the subjective perceptions of nurse images recognized by high school students using Q methodology and to explore the perceptual characteristics of each type. Through this process, the study sought to understand how high school students perceive nurses and to provide foundational data for establishing positive nurse images and developing effective nursing career guidance programs.

Methods To construct the Q population, written interviews were conducted with 45 high school students from August to December 2025 regarding their perceptions, impressions, and thoughts about nurses. In addition, domestic and international literature related to nurse image and nursing perception was reviewed to supplement the statements. After removing duplicate expressions and reviewing semantic clarity and content validity, a total of 34 Q sample statements were finalized. Participants sorted the 34 Q statements into a forced quasi-normal distribution using a 9-point scale. The sorted data were scored and analyzed using the PC-QUANL program through factor analysis.

Results As a result of the analysis, the nurse image recognized by high school students was classified into two types. The first type was the 'real awareness type nurse image' that recognizes the high work intensity and realistic working environment of nurses, and the second type was the 'Nightingale type nurse image' that recognizes nurses centering on sacrifice and service spirit.

Conclusion This study categorized high school students’ perceptions of nurse images based on subjective viewpoints and provided a framework for understanding the diverse ways adolescents perceive the nursing profession. The findings may serve as foundational data for developing tailored nursing career education and promotional strategies, and ultimately contribute to fostering positive nurse images and encouraging interest in the nursing profession among high school students.