Qualitative_data_analysis

Figure 13.17 Comparing strength of relationships between categories
OF MAPS AND MATRICES 221
In Figure 13.16, we can compare not just the scope of the categories, but also the
scope of the causal relationships between them. Thus the strongest relationship is
between ‘suffering’ and transpositions of ‘occupation’ and ‘temperament’ in
combination, while of the separate relationships the ‘occupation-suffering’
connection is weaker than the ‘temperament-suffering’ connection.
Using the same procedure, we can map out the relationships between the
categories ‘occupation’ and ‘temperament’ and each of the sub-categories of
‘suffering’. In Figure 13.17 we can see that there is a stronger connection between
the category ‘occupation’ and the category ‘discomfort’ than there is between
‘occupation’ and ‘disfigurement’. The connections with ‘discomfort’ generally have
more scope than the connection with ‘disfigurement’, and strongest of all is the
scope of the connection between the categories ‘occupation’ and ‘temperament’
combined and ‘discomfort’. In this way we map out connections between key
categories and compare the scope of the connections between them. So far the
mapping we have done has been quite uncomplicated, but if we put these various
strands together we can handle quite complex relationships (Figure 13.18).
Now we have produced a diagram which looks as complicated as a map of the
London Underground! If our computer supports it, then we too can use colour to
differentiate the different connections. In the Underground, of course, trains can
travel in both directions, and if need be, we might extend or amend our map to take
account of reciprocal relationships or feedback. For example, in Figure 13.19 the
connection between ‘temperament’ and ‘suffering’ is presented as reciprocal by
drawing arrows pointing in each direction. This tells us that the relationship works
both ways—that sometimes the ‘suffering’ Vincent inflicts on patients ends up
exacerbating his own temperamental moods and behaviour.
If possible, though, it would be preferable to ‘unpack’ this reciprocal relationship,
so that we can identify the strength and character of the connections involved. For