occupational science

Question 1

What Is Occupational Science?

Answer 1

Occupational Science is an academic discipline concerned with the study of the human as an occupational being and supports occupational therapy.

The first science founded by occupational therapists, which was brought about by the “need for a body of knowledge that focused on the many aspects of engaging in occupations and its use in therapy” (Molke, Laliberte-Rudman, Polatajko, 2004, p. 270).

Looks at how people become independent, adapt to environmental demands and achieve competency (Clark, 1991).

Question 2

What is Vs what is not OS

Answer 2

It does not contain…
… established guidelines for intervention or a prepackaged format for treating patients.

But…
… individual practitioners may draw from knowledge generated in occupational science to inform their clinical reasoning about specific cases.

Question 3

Differentiating OT and OS

Answer 3

OT is a profession comprised of a set of skills and knowledge base

OS is an academic discipline which involves scholarly inquiry, knowledge, and learning with research conducted in a systematic, disciplined manner that can be scrutinized by others.
The unit of study is occupation

Question 4

Occupational Science Provides…

Answer 4

Foundational knowledge for Occupational Therapy
A framework for research and evidenced based practice
A unique professional perspective

Question 5

Philosophical Assumptions of OS

Answer 5

Engagement in meaningful activities is essential to health.

The recursive relationship between occupation and narrative shapes personal identity.

Humans are most true to themselves when they are engaged in meaningful and satisfying occupations.

People have the right to engage in meaningful occupations. (occupational justice)

Question 6

OS focuses on three research orientations of occupation:

Answer 6

Form
Function
Meaning

Question 7

Form of Occupation

Answer 7

Aspects of occupations that are directly observable.

Example: Caregiver preparing dinner with a stroke survivor

Question 8

Function of Occupation

Answer 8

The ways occupation influences development, adaptation, health, and quality of life.

Example: Working together to cook helps the stroke survivor participate in tasks and allows for the couple to share an experience together.