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Published on: February 16, 2011
Learning From Children's Perspectives: Occupational Therapists' Reflections on Their Therapeutic Relationship
Sandrine Gagné-Trudel1, Pierre-Yves Therriault2, Noémi Cantin2
1Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières.
Summary
Occupational therapists view the therapeutic relationship as key, but children often lack input. Enhancing children's participation and emotional expression is vital for effective pediatric occupational therapy.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Occupational Therapy
- Child Psychology
- Therapeutic Relationships
Background:
- The therapeutic relationship is central to pediatric occupational therapy.
- Understanding children's experiences within this relationship is crucial but historically limited.
- Emerging research highlights the need for therapists to consider children's perspectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore occupational therapists' views on their therapeutic relationships with children.
- To integrate insights from children's experiences into therapist perspectives.
- To identify areas for improving therapeutic alliances in pediatric practice.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interpretive description design.
- Four online focus groups conducted with 29 occupational therapists in Québec, Canada.
- Data analyzed using Baribeau's interpretive approach to identify themes.
Main Results:
- Therapeutic relationships are shaped by occupation and collaboration with families.
- Children are frequently excluded from decision-making and expressing their views.
- Strategies to improve relationships include supporting children's emotional expression and following their lead.
Conclusions:
- Children's experiences are prompting significant reflection among occupational therapists.
- Creating space for children's active participation and expression is essential.
- Improving therapeutic relationships requires prioritizing the child's voice and agency.
Keywords:
Child health servicesClient-professional relationshipErgothérapieOccupational therapyPartenariatPartnershipQualitative researchrecherche qualitativerelation client-professionnelservices de santé pour enfantsMore Related Videos
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