Time Line of Theory Evolution Flashcards
Occupational therapy has developed since the profession first emerged during the
1880s.
The evolution of theory follows the…
Political events and landscape of the time.
The ongoing development of occupational therapy is due to…
How it has managed to adapt its theory to changing conditions and needs.
Late 1800s
Occupational therapy theory stemmed from the arts and crafts movement and the moral treatment movement. The theory was based on a holistic view of health and looked beyond just medicine to find a sense of mental achievement and productivity. The influence from the arts and crafts movement focused on increasing leisure and productivity through the idea that “hand and mind = health.” The moral treatment movement helped facilitate the holistic point of view by actively involving patients in their treatment.
1914–1918
During World War I, vast numbers of wounded men required activity to help them resume their daily roles. At first, volunteers assisted them. Much of the theory was based on diversional occupational engagement.
1920s–1930s
When the war was over, occupational therapy theory expanded to vocational training, industrial therapy programs, and clinical workshops. These programs were set up to assist newly discharged patients to help them readjust and develop tolerance to work. Occupational theory extended from diversional activity to work activity.
1960s
The theory was now increasingly medical, with occupational therapists addressing orthopedic and neurological conditions using compensatory techniques, such as aids and equipment.
1980s
The World Federation of Occupational Therapists was formed. Guidelines associated with the delivery of client-centered occupational therapy were developed. Occupational therapy became a dominant force in inpatient settings, and the use of occupational theory to enable hospital discharges increased the number of occupational therapists. Client-centered practice became the core construct of theory, which persists today.
1990s
This was a huge growth period for occupational therapy membership. There were now a wide variety of specializations and an increased production of theory related to occupational science. Sociologists began to contribute to this theory.
2000s
Technology had a huge impact on the development of occupational therapy during this time. Speech recognition software, adaptive equipment, wheelchairs, computer software programs, and electronic environmental controls assisted in the facilitation of clients’ daily activities.
2010s
The need for a stronger evidence base placed more occupational therapists in research positions. Occupational science theory was now omnipresent. Roles included emerging settings for practicing occupational therapy worldwide, such as in prisons and homeless hostels.
Today
The theory of occupational justice becomes increasingly important around the world. Occupational therapy is now a global profession with a strong theoretical base grounded in occupational science.
Future
Technological advances provide endless possibilities for theory development. The virtual landscape is becoming an increasingly prevalent resource for occupational therapy theory.
