Coming Home to Family: Now Is the Time!

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy
• Professional Community Building

Background:

• The concept of 'family' serves as a metaphor for professional connectedness within occupational therapy.
• Understanding diverse values and cultural practices is crucial for effective occupational therapy practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the significance of family as a metaphor for professional relationships in occupational therapy.
• To examine how embracing diverse experiences strengthens the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
• To align with AOTA Vision 2025 goals for the future of occupational therapy.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the 'family' metaphor in occupational therapy.
• Discussion of inclusivity and engagement strategies for practitioners and students.
• Exploration of AOTA's role in fostering community and belonging.

Main Results:

• The 'family' metaphor highlights the supportive and nurturing connections within the occupational therapy community.
• Inclusivity and engagement are key to strengthening the AOTA and its membership.
• Shared values and cultural understanding enhance occupational therapy practice and outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The AOTA community functions as an extended family, fostering support, belonging, and excellence.
• Strengthening the AOTA through inclusivity is vital as the profession approaches its 100th anniversary.
• AOTA Vision 2025 guides the profession toward improved health, well-being, and quality of life through occupational therapy.