Conclusions and Future Directions

Abstract

In this monograph I have presented a philosophical and theoretical evolution in the use of the facet theory approach along with novel applications of the facet theory and the mapping sentence. Advances have taken the form of extensions in the use of multi-dimensional research design and analysis and the consideration of facet theory as a qualitative orientation in research, as a research project-planning tool and within a therapeutic domain. Throughout this book, I have demonstrated how the mapping sentence is central to facet theory and to my proposed developments. Indeed, I claim that it is the mapping sentence that is the single most unique feature of existing facet theory research and to my proposed extensions, especially within a qualitative context and as a stand-alone technique. The mapping sentence is a powerful technique, as it possesses the ability to integrate many forms of research, to provide a guide for therapeutic interventions and as management tool. I have shown that facet theory and the mapping sentence offer a potentially constructive philosophical basis for both the understanding of daily existence and enquiries into personal ontologies and mereologies. Longitudinal research is another area in which I have started to undertake research. I undertook a survey in the late 1980s using mapping sentence-designed questionnaire surveys to investigate the structure of environmental concern (Hackett, 1995).