Paediatric occupational therapists' reflections on meaning in professional practice: a phenomenological study

The construct of meaning plays an important role in the theories and models that inform occupational therapy; yet little research has examined the construct of meaning within the professional practices of occupational therapists.

The purpose of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of the meanings occupational therapists identify within their professional practice occupations.

A phenomenological methodology was adopted for this study. Eight paediatric occupational therapists participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews, which were tape-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed.

Seven major themes were identified: Relating to clients as human beings, making a positive difference, working as a team, permission to have fun, congruency of values, support in the workplace, and artistry of practice.

The study contributes to knowledge about accounts of meaning in the working lives of paediatric occupational therapists and highlights potential implications for therapists, clients, teams, organizations, and for the profession.