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Theory application by school-based occupational therapists
1Towson State University, Maryland, USA.
Summary
School-based occupational therapists use multiple theories, primarily sensory integration and neurodevelopmental theory, to guide their practice. Their choices are influenced by client needs and their own educational background.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Pediatric therapy
- Theoretical frameworks in practice
Background:
- Inconsistent application of theory in occupational therapy, particularly in pediatrics.
- Need to understand how school-based therapists utilize theoretical frameworks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the application of theory by school-based occupational therapists.
- To identify the frames of reference used and the rationale behind their selection.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 72 school-based occupational therapists in the mid-Atlantic.
- 51 therapists (70.8%) returned the questionnaire.
- Data collected on demographics, frames of reference used, and reasons for use.
Main Results:
- Therapists commonly employed a multitheoretical approach.
- Sensory integration theory and neurodevelopmental theory were the most frequently used frames of reference.
- Factors influencing frame of reference selection included children's needs and therapist education.
Conclusions:
- Formal education and continuing professional development significantly shape therapists' conceptual frameworks.
- Understanding these influences can inform educational strategies for occupational therapists.