Perceived and valued roles of adults with severe mental health problems

The purpose of this article is to convey the findings of two studies related to the perception of past, present and future roles, the value attributed to these roles as well as the role patterns. Both studies were conducted with adults who have schizophrenia and are involved in a rehabilitation or work program. Data were collected from two sources: 1) secondary analysis of a study related to the methodology for validating the French translation (Hachey, Jumoorty, & Mercier, 1995) of the "Role Checklist", (Barris, Oakley, & Kielhofner, 1988) and 2) a research project on the perception of roles and quality of life. Results showed that the dominant roles assumed by participants regardless of time were family member, friend, home maintainer and hobbyist. The most valued roles were those of friend, worker, and family member. The discussion will address the questions asked and elucidate the role patterns. The conclusion underlines the importance, for occupational therapists and health professionals, of including roles in the daily lives of their clients, taking into consideration the ones they value most highly.