Going to the source

A small but growing body of occupational therapy literature identifies the value of qualitative research methodology, which is useful with relatively unstudied or complex phenomena. This paper describes the use of qualitative research to obtain insight into the world of adults with significantly limiting cerebral palsy, as seen from their own perspective. The first author conducted extended, guided interviews with five adults who live independently with attendant care. The resulting data, synthesized into recurring themes, suggested guidelines for occupational therapy practice. In this paper, the study methodology is described in depth, and directions for further qualitative and quantitative research are presented.