Re-imagining occupational wellbeing: Development of an evidence-based framework.

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy and occupational science.
• Exploration of human engagement in daily activities and its link to wellbeing.

Background:

• Limited consensus exists in the literature regarding how engagement in meaningful activities fosters wellbeing.
• There is a lack of evidence-based frameworks to guide occupational therapists in addressing client wellbeing.
• Occupational therapists focus on everyday activity engagement for promoting wellbeing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an evidence-based, contemporary framework for occupational wellbeing.
• To define the domains and descriptive statements of occupational wellbeing.
• To provide a foundation for occupational therapy practitioners addressing client wellbeing.

Main Methods:

• A multiphase, exploratory sequential mixed methods design was employed.
• Phase 1 involved a literature review and focus groups to explore potential domains.
• Phase 2 utilized the Delphi technique with an expert panel to refine and corroborate domains.

Main Results:

• Six new domains of occupational wellbeing were identified: competence, autonomy, contentment and pleasure, identity, hope, and belonging.
• Five of the six domains achieved a consensus level of 70% or higher among the expert panel.
• The domain of hope did not reach the consensus threshold in the expert panel's assessment.

Conclusions:

• An evidence-based framework for occupational wellbeing was developed using a rigorous methodology.
• The framework was supported by a panel of experts in occupational therapy and occupational science.
• Further research is needed to confirm the widespread applicability and support for these domains across diverse populations.