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Occupational therapy's dance with diversity
1Occupational Therapy Program, University of Southern Maine/Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster Street, Lewiston, Maine 04240, USA. rblack@usm.maine.edu
Summary
The occupational therapy workforce
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy workforce diversity and multiculturalism.
Background:
- Societal demographics are shifting, necessitating an examination of diversity within occupational therapy.
- The article uses a dance metaphor to explore leadership and member roles in diversity initiatives.
Observation:
- A historical review (1940s-present) analyzes the evolution of diversity in occupational therapy.
- The profession's engagement with diversity has varied over time.
Findings:
- The early to mid-1990s marked a period of effective and harmonious exploration of diversity issues.
- Collaboration between occupational therapy leaders and members characterized this productive era.
Implications:
- Understanding historical patterns of diversity engagement can inform future strategies.
- Synchronized efforts between leadership and members are crucial for advancing multiculturalism in occupational therapy.