Narrative Theater to Examine and Mitigate Anti-Black Racism Within Occupational Therapy.

Area of Science:

• Social justice and theater
• Racism and behavioral science
• Occupational therapy and social change

Background:

• Theater has historical ties to social justice.
• Theater can potentially reduce racist attitudes and behaviors.
• Occupational therapy students and practitioners face anti-Black racism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theatrically portray narratives from Black occupational therapy students and practitioners to a national audience.
• To examine the impact of theatrical performance on anti-Black racism among attendees.
• To provide insights into experiences of anti-Black racism within occupational therapy.

Main Methods:

• The Identity Development Evolution and Sharing (IDEAS) model guided the translation of narratives into a filmed performance.
• Paired t-test of pre/post administration of the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-Stigma (AAQ-S) measured changes in stigma beliefs.
• Qualitative thematic analysis of an open-ended post-survey question elucidated attendee experiences.

Main Results:

• The theatrical performance engendered significant decreases in stigma.
• Qualitative data elucidated potential mechanisms of change.
• The study offers a promising means for occupational therapists to engage in anti-racism.

Conclusions:

• Theater-based interventions show promise for reducing stigma and anti-Black racism.
• Occupational therapy can utilize theatrical performances to address racism.
• Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of such interventions.