bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive impairments in clients with dual diagnosis (chronic psychotic disorders and substance abuse): considerations for treatment
Authors: Harrison Terri S. , Precin Pat
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to assess a broad range of cognitive functioning in a dual diagnosis sample (individuals with a chronic psychotic disorder and substance abuse/dependence) and offer recommendations for programme design and treatment interventions. The Neurobehavioural Cognitive Status Examination (NCSE) was administered to twenty‐seven subjects. Statistical comparisons with a normative and psychiatric sample were conducted. The results revealed that two‐thirds of the sample demonstrated cognitive impairments as measured by the NCSE, with 37% scoring in the impaired range on three or more of the ten subtests. Great variability between subjects was recorded. Deficits at the p<0.05 level were recorded for seven of the ten subtests in the young group, and for two of the ten subtests for the old group as compared to a normal population. For both age groups memory and judgement were the most statistically deficient. This study supports assessment of cognitive status for dual diagnosis clients, in order to offer treatment appropriate to varied levels of intellectual functioning and suggest a number of treatment options. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Comparison of younger and older healthy American adults on the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment
Authors: Annes Gabrielle , Katz Noomi , Cermak Sharon A.
Published: March 2006

This study compared the performance of healthy young adults (ages 17–25) with the performance of healthy older adults (ages 40–75) on the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA), a cognitive evaluation consisting of 20 subtests divided into four areas, (Orientation, Perception, Visuomotor Organisation, and Thinking Operations). The purpose was to: 1) ascertain whether significantly fewer older subjects than younger subjects would achieve a maximum score on each of the subtests of the LOTCA; 2) determine whether older adults would perform significantly more slowly than younger adults on the Visuomotor Organisation subtests of the LOTCA; 3) examine whether performance of American adults was similar to the standardisation sample of Israeli adults. Forty‐nine older adult subjects and 49 younger adult subjects were tested on the LOTCA. All the younger adult subjects and 14 older adult subjects were also timed on the seven subtests of the Visuomotor Organisation area. Results indicated that older adults took significantly longer than younger adults to complete six of the seven subtests. Based on the study's results, it appears that separate LOTCA norms for accuracy are not required across these two age groups and that time can be used to differentiate performance between healthy normal older and younger adults on the Visuomotor Organisation subtests. Additionally, performance of normal American adults is similar to Israeli adults, thus supporting the use of the LOTCA in the United States. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Changing helplessness to coping: an exploratory study of social skills training with individuals with long‐term mental illness
Authors: Salo‐Chydenius Sisko
Published: March 2006

The primary purpose of this study was to apply an occupational therapy programme for social skills training based on a cognitive‐behavioural frame of reference to individuals with long‐term mental illness. The goal of the social skills training group was to enable patients to develop verbal and non‐verbal communication skills that could be generalised to everyday interpersonal encounters. A case example of the application of social skills training with a 38‐year‐old single male with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia is described. The Group‐Interaction Skills Survey developed by the author served as an outcome measure. Qualitative data confirmed the researcher's hypothesis that individuals with long‐term mental illness can benefit from social skills training using a combination of role‐playing, sociodrama, videotape recordings and creative media. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Patient experiences and outcome of treatment in psychiatric occupational therapy – three cases
Authors: Eklund Mona
Published: March 2006

The experiences and outcome of treatment among three patients, following a group programme in psychiatric outpatient occupational therapy are described in this article using qualitative and quantitative measures. They were members of a group of 20 individuals whose course of outcome are also briefly outlined. Two of them were women with fairly similar initial pre‐treatment status. One of the women improved during treatment, reported positive experiences, and patients attributed her development to the occupational therapy programme. The other woman improved to a minor degree and held a negative opinion of the programme. At a 1‐year follow‐up she seemed to have reached the same level of progress as the other woman with a large improvement during treatment, partly due to another form of therapy. The third patient, a male, made a notable improvement. At discharge, and at follow‐up, he was functioning at a normal level. He ascribed his progress partly to the occupational therapy programme. The patients' different courses of change seemed related to how they perceived the ward atmosphere – the most improved patient was most content and the least improved least satisfied with the ward atmosphere. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Impact of aquatic programmes on adolescents with cerebral palsy
Authors: Dorval Genevieve , Tetreault Sylvie , Caron Chantal
Published: March 2006

This research evaluates the impact of two aquatic programmes (conventional and experimental) on self‐esteem and functional independence of 20 adolescents with cerebral palsy. Impact was examined through statistical analyses of data collected at baseline (T1), post‐test (T2) and nine months after the end of aquatic programmes (T3). Significant relationships were found between self‐esteem, functional independence and aquatic activities. The results confirm the potential value of aquatic programmes to improve the socio‐emotional development and functional independence of this population. Despite the positive increase of the subjects' scores, the findings suggest that the experimental aquatic programme was not sufficiently powerful to be significantly different from the conventional program, in terms of gains in self‐esteem and functional independence. The implications of these findings and the usefulness of aquatic activities as meaningful therapy for adolescents with cerebral palsy are discussed. Directions for future studies are also proposed. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Preparing students for practice in a changing community environment: an innovative course
Authors: Renwick Rebecca , Cockburn Lynn , Colantonio Angela , Friedland Judith
Published: March 2006

This paper provides an overview of an innovative course in community occupational therapy. The course emphasises and prepares students for community practice in an environment profoundly affected by ongoing changes in Canada's health and social systems. Its rationale, objectives, structure, and content are outlined. In particular, the paper highlights the in vivo, problem‐based component of the course, which centres around community‐based fieldwork. A summary of the major results of the evaluation of the course is also presented. Although this course was designed for Canadian occupational therapy students, much of the material presented is potentially useful to educators of occupational therapy students in other countries. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A comparison of self‐report and informant report of tactile defensiveness amongst children in Israel
Authors: Parush Shula , Doryon Yehudit Dauber , Katz Noomi
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to compare self‐report and informant report of Tactile Defensiveness (TD) for 43 Israeli children aged 4 years 7 months to 10 years old. The Touch Inventory for Elementary School‐Aged Children (TIE) was used for the child's self‐report and a modified version of the TIE questionnaire used for the parent's (informant) report. The scores on both the original TIE and the modified parent's version were then compared with an occupational therapist's rating of the degree of the child's tactile responsivity. Statistically, no significant correlation was found between the parent's report and the child's report. There was, however, a statistically significant correlation between the child's report and the therapist's evaluation of his or her tactile defensiveness. No statistically significant correlation was found between the parent's report and the therapist's evaluation. These results suggest that the child should also be considered a useful source of information in the assessment of the TD syndrome. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Activity analysis: a case study utilising electromyography
Authors: Chow Susanna M.K.
Published: March 2006

The therapeutic skateboard in a case study, utilising electromyography (EMG) in the analysis of an assistive activity, is presented. The EMG levels of eight shoulder muscles during horizontal adduction and abduction were studied. Three conditions were analysed: the arm supported by a therapeutic skate, a five‐pound weight belt on the supported arm and the non‐assistive condition where the arm was unsupported. It was found that:

The therapeutic skate activity demanded little movement (3.8–48%) from the shoulder muscles and is suitable for early mobilisation.

The skateboard assists primarily the stabilisers in both horizontal abduction and adduction.

Addition of weights was a gentle upgrading activity creating a small increase in the eight muscles being monitored. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The impact of refugee resettlement on Southeast Asian adolescents and young adults: implications for occupational therapists
Authors: Yau Matthew Kwai‐Sang
Published: March 2006

After the change of governments in Vietnam and Cambodia and amidst turmoil in the mid 1970s, many Southeast Asians, fearing reprisals, emigrated from these countries. Among them were children, many of whom were separated from their families prior to, or during, their escape. Many of them have been reset‐tled in the Western countries from the refugee camps, and now are adolescents or are entering into young adulthood. With memories of the war and the stress of separation from family and adaptation to different cultures, psychosocial problems are common in this population. Occupational therapy can help these clients by providing opportunities to: (1) practise appropriate human occupations and establish more satisfying relationships; (2) facilitate release and sublimation of emotional drives; (3) enhance smooth transition and adaptation to the new environment; and (4) assist in the adoption of appropriate occupational roles. General principles are proposed for developing occupational therapy services that are appropriate and culturally relevant to the needs of this client group. Occupational therapists can play an important role in assisting the clients in resettlement, pursuing better quality of life and being a contributing member of the society. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The relationship between occupational balance and health: a pilot study
Authors: Wilcock A.A. , Chelin M. , Hall M. , Hamley N. , Morrison B. , Scrivener L. , Townsend M. , Treen K.
Published: March 2006

Occupational therapists, physicians and others evince an appreciation of the relationship between balanced lifestyles and health, but there are few studies that concentrate on balance as a key issue. This paper reports on a pilot study that tested the effectiveness of a questionnaire to explore perceptions of occupational balance and its relationship to health. The ultimate aim is to provide information that may assist clients, or the population in general, about potentially healthily balanced configurations of occupation. Using a cluster sampling method and with 146 respondents the results of a questionnaire indicated that, for many of these respondents, perceived ideal occupational balance is approximately equal involvement in physical, mental, social and rest occupations. A correlation between reported good health and the closeness of current occupational patterns to the ideal was statistically significant. These promising results warrant further investigation. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Occupational therapists' skills and attitudes regarding use of computers and assistive technology
Authors: Unsworth Carolyn A. , Townsend Marjorie C.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine the skills and attitudes of a sample of practicing occupational therapists regarding the use of computers, and to explore their agreement with the Foundation Level Technology Competencies proposed for adoption in the United States of America (American Occupational Therapy Association, 1991; reported in Hammel and Smith, 1993). Out of a sample of 250 subjects, 89 occupational therapists in the USA completed a questionnaire regarding their experiences with, and attitudes towards computers, and their agreement with the proposed Competencies. The results indicated that while the majority of therapists had had some exposure to computers, they wanted to learn more—particularly how a computer could aid management tasks. While 50% or more of the therapists ‘Agreed’ or ‘Strongly Agreed’ with 19 of the 21 Competencies, the level of therapist ‘Indecision’ or ‘Disagreement’ with several of the Competencies suggests that either these Competencies require revision, or that if the Competencies are nationally adopted, many therapists may require intensive continuing education programmes to bring their skills to a competent standard. Adoption of these Competencies has many implications for international standards of occupational therapy practice and levels of computer education. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Focus on family care givers for individuals with dementia: implications for occupational therapy practice
Authors: Chung Jenny Ching‐Ching
Published: March 2006

Although family carers assume a pivotal role in caring for relatives with dementia, few occupational therapy studies are directed towards them (Gitlin, Corcoran & Leinmiller‐Eckhardt, 1995). In this qualitative study, the researcher explored the feelings and experiences of family carers when caring for relatives with dementia. Fifteen family carers were invited to participate in two focus group interviews. Four themes emerged from the findings. First, caring duties included hands‐on assistance in daily living tasks and supervision of clients' behaviours. Second, carers devised caring strategies to facilitate the caring process. Third, feelings of caregiving were fluid and complex. Finally, negative caring experiences outweighed positive ones. By understanding the unique needs of family carers, occupational therapists should include therapy to family carers as part of treating individuals with dementia. Suggested interventions include collaborative work with family carers; support groups for family carers; and education on handling techniques of cognitive impairments and behavioural changes. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The application of concept analysis in the occupational therapy treatment process in mental health
Authors: Ivarsson Ann‐Britt , Söderback Ingrid , Stein Franklin
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to construct a coding schema for analysing the occupational therapy process, often described as formulating the treatment goal, implementing treatment and evaluating the effect of treatment. The concepts underlying the terms treatment goal, treatment intervention and effect or outcome of treatment, as used in occupational therapy, were defined and an analytical template of questions was constructed, using the analysis method designed by Walker and Avant (1995). The method included a third part; definitions of the three concepts were formulated on the basis of excerpts from occupational therapy textbooks in mental health that are well known in Sweden. The results showed that the concept of treatment goal included the attributive components planning goals, step‐by‐step goal, and group goal; the concept of treatment intervention included the components planning process, available resources and level; and the concept of effect or outcome of treatment included type and measurement. The excerpts for each of the components were then summarized as statements. These statements were converted into the questions that constituted the template. Third, these questions were used to test the usefulness of the template in analysing the occupational therapy content of 10 scientific reports on individuals with psychosis. All but two questions served to identify attributes of the three concepts. The template was useful for analysing the content of 10 research studies relevant to the occupational therapy process in mental health. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
‘I'm allowed to experiment’: the role of people with psychiatric disorders in facilitating students' learning
Authors: Lyons Michael , Ziviani Jenny
Published: March 2006

Fieldwork education brings students into close contact with the people who use occupational therapy services and is an important avenue for socializing students into professionally accepted views of, and behaviours towards, these people. Drawing on narrative data from a naturalistic study of nine Australian occupational therapy students' fieldwork experiences in psychiatric hospital settings, this paper explores the role of people with psychiatric disorders in facilitating students' learning. Two terms are used by the authors to represent students' understanding of these people for educational purposes, namely, as learning resources and as demonstration models. From students' narratives, examples of the attributes they sought to acquire and demonstrate through involvement with people with psychiatric disorders are discussed. There are indications from these data that students' educational needs may foster a view of people with psychiatric disorders as objects in the service of students' learning. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Self‐perceived quality of life of Chinese elderly people in Hong Kong
Authors: Lau Anna , Chi Iris , McKenna Kryss
Published: March 2006

Central to the philosophy of occupational therapy is a commitment to the improvement of clients' quality of life (QOL). There has been a growing interest in the QOL of elderly people in Hong Kong. Social and cultural differences may preclude the application of QOL findings for elderly people in Western countries to their Hong Kong counterparts. This study, which is the preliminary phase of a larger study, explored the QOL of Chinese elderly people in Hong Kong from their own perspective. Focus group interviews were conducted with six Chinese community‐residing elderly people who identified the following domains and component elements as being important to their QOL: physical and functional well‐being (good health, leisure), psychological well‐being (life satisfaction, happiness), social well‐being (social interaction, social network/support) and economic well‐being (money, housing). Further investigation of factors including self‐concept, self‐pride, personal autonomy, role fulfilment, and coping ability is required to determine if these are QOL elements for this population. Participants' culturally related philosophical beliefs were found to influence their QOL. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Students' knowledge of pain: a survey of four schools
Authors: Rochman Deborah L.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to explore occupational therapy students' understanding of pain. During the 1996–7 academic year, 201 senior entry‐level professional students at four universities in the northeastern United States completed a survey testing 10 common myths about assessment of persons with pain. Participants answered true or false to the 10 statements. The mean score was 61% and the number of correct answers ranged from 0% to 100%. Students scored highest in knowing that all pain is ‘real’ (88% correct) and that the patient is the best authority on pain sensation (87% correct). Students made most errors in believing that visible signs validate the existence of pain (42% correct) and that malingering is common (46% correct). This study supports the need for organized efforts to improve pain knowledge among entry‐level occupational therapy students. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Ernst Westerlund – a Swedish doctor of occupation
Authors: Jonsson Hans
Published: March 2006

The treatment methods of Dr Ernst Westerlund (1839–1924), one of the people often named in the history of Swedish occupational therapy, are examined in this paper. During Westerlund's lifetime, he built up a reputation as the wonder doctor from Enköping using various occupations in treating patients. The basis for his practice was individualization of treatment and a genuine engagement and authority, combined with a deep belief in patients' will to recovery. He stressed balance between various types of occupation and viewed work as essential from a meaning‐centred point of view. He also used the town of Enköping itself as a therapeutic environment. The ideas put into practice by Westerlund leave much for us to learn in today's practice of occupational therapy. His ideas are consistent with the moral treatment movement of the nineteenth century. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
ADL dependence in the elderly population living in the community: the influence of functional limitations and physical environmental demand
Authors: Iwarsson Susanne , Isacsson ÅKe , Lanke Jan
Published: March 2006

Empirical research elucidating the relationships between aspects of functional competence and environmental factors is lacking. This study aimed to analyse how functional limitations in the individual and housing accessibility problems influence ADL dependence in the elderly population, and to test Lawton's docility hypothesis. Data were collected from 133 Swedish subjects aged 75–84, who were living in the community. The main finding was that dependence in ADL correlated highly significantly with housing accessibility problems. The results also revealed significantly more ADL disability in the group of respondents in whom the heaviest environmental demands were identified, supporting the docility hypothesis. Although the study had limitations because the data required the use of non‐parametric statistics, so restricting possible interpretations of the effects of geriatric comorbidity, the results indicated that interventions such as housing adaptations ought to be most effective with frail individuals. To promote independence in the general population, society has to work towards more accessible housing. More research is needed considering more environmental dimensions and elderly people's subjective apprehension of their housing environment. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Visual perception and hand function in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lau Anna , Chan Chetwyn C.H. , Keung Yuen Hon
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between hand function performance and visual perceptual function in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Twenty‐two participants, 19 women and 3 men, with a clinical diagnosis of MS were evaluated using the interim Australian version of the Jebsen Test of Hand Function (JTHF) (Agnew and Maas, 1982a) and the Rivermead Perceptual Assessment Battery (RPAB) (Whiting et al., 1985). Results indicated that participants exhibit hand function problems and difficulties with visuospatial and visuomotor tasks. Four of the subtests in the JTHF (card turning, manipulating small objects, moving large light objects and moving large heavy objects) were moderately to highly correlated with three RPAB subtests (right/left copying shapes, right/left copying words and cancellation) measuring inattention function. Based on task analysis, high correlation between subtests of the two assessments may indicate that both assessments involve a motor component. The suitability of these assessments for establishing relationships between hand function and non‐motor visual perceptual skills in persons with MS is therefore questioned. In view of the small sample size, however, larger‐scale research is needed to confirm this claim. The present study provides some evidence to support the neuro‐anatomical model proposed by Botez and associates (1989). Further research should aim to design an appropriate and sensitive instrument for evaluating visual perceptual dysfunction in people with MS. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Early intervention services in daily family life: mothers' perceptions of ‘ideal’ versus ‘actual’ service provision
Authors: Thompson Kirsty M.
Published: March 2006

Although the occupational therapy and early intervention literature espouses a family‐centred approach to intervention, families have rarely been asked about their experiences of these services. This paper describes a qualitative study that aimed to identify and explore parents' perceptions of occupational therapy services and the impact of these services in their daily family life. Ten mothers of children (aged 0–6 years) with disabilities and high support needs completed questionnaires and semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews. Analysis revealed that mothers thought in terms of early intervention services in general, rather than in terms of occupational therapy specifically. Mothers used early intervention services primarily to enhance their child's abilities, while considering what was best for their family and, as a lesser priority, themselves. Ideally, relaxed and friendly service providers were perceived as having a greater insight into daily family life, and therefore a greater capacity to provide services to meet family needs (e.g., flexible, home‐based services). However, the mothers in this study did not experience many ‘ideal’ characteristics of services and service providers, suggesting that changes are needed in occupational therapy practice and in the education of therapists. Implications for occupational therapy education and practice are discussed in the context of the family‐centred literature, and recommendations are made for future research with families. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The effects of electronic music‐making as a therapeutic activity for improving upper extremity active range of motion
Authors: Paul Stanley , Ramsey David
Published: March 2006

The use of occupation to enhance function has been the major principle of the occupational therapy profession. Literature shows that added‐purpose occupations elicit better sensorimotor performance than single‐purpose and rote exercise conditions. Added‐purpose conditions also enhance the motivation and the participation level of individuals. This study examined music‐making activity as a form of occupational embedded exercise to evaluate its effect on improving active shoulder flexion and elbow extension in individuals with hemiplegia. A pre‐test–post‐test control group design involving 10 participants each in experimental and control groups was used. Results showed no statistically significant improvements in shoulder flexion and elbow extension between the experimental and control groups. However, the intervention showed clinical significance in the form of a considerable increase in active shoulder and elbow range in the experimental group. The small sample size and lack of data on control group participants' degree of immobility and other activities might have influenced the study results. Further studies evaluating activities of daily living, work and leisure occupations and their effect on various sensorimotor components are recommended. Also, a larger sample could reduce the probability of a type II error. The results of this study support the occupational therapy principle of preventing disability, improving human performance and maintaining health through meaningful occupation. It also adds accountability to our services by way of showing the efficacy of our treatment. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Neuro‐occupation and the management of chronic pain through mindfulness meditation
Authors: Walloch Christy L.
Published: March 2006

Neuro‐occupation is an evolving concept in occupational therapy that focuses on the interdependent, dynamic and reciprocal relationship between the nervous system and occupational performance. Understanding neuro‐occupation is integral to designing a meaningful and effective treatment regime with a client. In this paper, an example of the practical use of neuro‐occupation is presented using the intervention of mindfulness meditation in the management of the sensory and affective dimensions of chronic pain. In order to use the neuro‐occupation framework, basic knowledge of pain neurophysiology and an understanding of how chronic pain may lead to occupational dysfunction are required. It is also necessary to comprehend mindfulness meditation, the physiological changes that occur during the practice of mindfulness meditation and the relationship between these physiological changes and the reduction of pain perception. A discussion of the aforementioned is therefore supplied. A hypothetical case study of a young man suffering from chronic pain that results in occupational dysfunction is presented to help clarify how the concept of neuro‐occupation is used to guide treatment that may assist in the reconstruction of one's life goals and the performance of meaningful occupations. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Sensory integrative techniques applied to children with learning disabilities: an outcome study
Authors: Stonefelt Laurie L. , Stein Franklin
Published: March 2006

Learning disabilities are the most frequently reported causes of functional limitation among school‐age children (McNeil, 1995). Many children with learning disabilities have an underlying sensory integrative dysfunction (Hoehn and Baumeister, 1994); therefore, sensory integration therapy has been widely used in treating those children. Research on the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy in treating children with learning disabilities has shown conflicting results; many studies supported the use of sensory integration therapy, whereas others did not. Most of the literature indicates a need for further study in this area. The current study focused on the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy in treating children with learning disabilities, as perceived by their parents, teachers and occupational therapists. Thirty surveys were sent to participants in the Midwest: 10 each to parents, teachers and occupational therapists. Twenty‐three surveys were returned, giving a response rate of 77%. Most of the respondents identified that sensory integration therapy was extremely or somewhat effective in helping the children improve function in 12 skill areas. All parents reported doing activities in the home to help their child and all teachers reported making adaptations in the classroom to better accommodate the child. The sensory integrative techniques most frequently used by the therapists were linear activities, tactile stimulation, games and jumping/bouncing. Seven of the therapists reported using another treatment method in addition to sensory integration. These seven noted that a combination of treatments, a multimodel approach, was more effective than sensory integration alone. This study was consistent with previous research showing that sensory integration is an effective treatment method for children with learning disabilities. However, further research is needed using prospective designs involving single‐subject or group studies where extraneous variables are rigorously controlled. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Investigation of tactile defensiveness and self‐esteem in typically developing children
Authors: Stephens Cynthia Lee , Royeen Charlotte Brasic
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between tactile defensiveness and self‐esteem in typical children attending a state school. Thirty‐two children aged 8–11 were administered the Touch Inventory for Elementary School Aged Children to measure tactile defensiveness, and the Piers Harris Self Concept Scale to measure self‐esteem. A Spearman rank order correlation coefficient revealed a negative correlation (−0.429) which was statistically significant (p=0.014). These findings suggest that there is an inverse relationship between self‐esteem and behaviours associated with tactile defensiveness in elementary‐school‐aged children. Continued research in this area is recommended. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Theoretical bases of Mosey's group interaction skills
Authors: Donohue Mary V
Published: March 2006

The primary purpose of this article is to review and analyse the theoretical foundations of Mosey's concepts of five levels of group interaction skill development: parallel, project, egocentric cooperative, cooperative and mature group levels. The organization and synthesis of these conceptual levels of group interaction skills are developed into a schema for validating Mosey's concepts and associated ages. The literature includes 25 years of publication of Mosey's concepts. Approaches to content, construct and criterion validity methods of examination of group interaction skill concepts are reviewed. Empirical methods for future validity studies of the tool are proposed. Three new assumptions regarding the relationship of factors of group interaction skill are presented: (1) most people function at two levels of developmental group interaction; (2) there is a relationship between the nature of the activity and the level of function; (3) adults function at lower developmental levels of group interaction if the activity requires it. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – an occupational therapy programme
Authors: Cox Diane L
Published: March 2006

The cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is as yet undetermined; therefore, precise definitions for diagnosis and research have been developed. The most accepted diagnostic criteria are detailed below. It has been suggested that there are 150 000 cases of CFS in the UK, with a 2:1 predominance of females to males, and that prognosis without treatment is poor. The patterns of illness seen in CFS are identified and the development of an occupational therapy programme for the management of CFS is described. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Assisted suicide and its implications for occupational therapy
Authors: Royeen Matin , Crabtree Jeffrey L
Published: March 2006

Many people's lives have been extended by the miracles of modern medicine and technology. However, although the use of these new technologies and drugs may keep people alive longer, the question arises about the quality of that extended life. This paper reviews one physician's apparent preoccupation with assisted suicide in order to introduce the controversy regarding the ethical, moral and legal implications of physician‐assisted suicide in the USA. We discuss the arguments in favour of and against assisted suicide in the context of quality of life, individual autonomy versus communal responsibility, and professional autonomy. Occupational therapy, in particular, may be ethically challenged since one can argue that its aim is to help people lead a meaningful and purposeful life despite severe performance deficits. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Occupation: construct validity and empirical testing of predicting factors in an ageing population
Authors: Iwarsson Susanne , Samuelsson Gillis , Hagberg Bo
Published: March 2006

The models and theories of occupational therapy and occupational science to a great extent lack empirical support. We need an increased understanding of the construct of occupation and its predicting factors. The objectives of this study were to explore the construct of occupation in an ageing population, and to test the construct's relationships with underlying performance components and environmental influences. Applying a post hoc design to a comprehensive data set from a general population cohort, the Latent Variable Path Analysis with Partial Least Squares estimation procedure (LVPLS) was used for reiterative modelling, using a hypothesized model founded in the rehabilitation context as the starting point. A household and work‐related occupation variable was verified, and an acceptable model established. The results indicate that the construct of occupation can be explored with the LVPLS method, but the construct is complex and can only partly be subjected to empirical testing with a quantitative approach. The results demonstrate the feasibility of establishing a model based on general population data, maintaining the main structures of a model founded in the rehabilitation context. Empirical studies of the factors predicting occupation are valuable in order to develop and strengthen our theoretical models and taxonomies. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Students with disabilities in post‐secondary education: the perspectives of wheelchair users
Authors: Paul Stanley
Published: March 2006

Changes in higher education in the United States usually occur in response to societal attitudes and social and legislative policies. Over the past 15 years, post‐secondary institutions have experienced a significant increase in the enrolment of students with disabilities, a trend that has resulted in more wheelchair users in colleges and universities. Wheelchair users have unique problems among students with disabilities because of the presence of physical barriers in university environments and some negative attitudinal barriers. In this study, the university life experience of six students with disabilities, who used a wheelchair to attend school, was explored. A qualitative methodology involving one‐on‐one interviews was used with two undergraduate and four postgraduate students attending a large urban university. The interview sessions were analysed and the data coded into descriptive themes. The six major themes were: what college education means to us; making choices; personal support network; institutional responsibility; university community; and self‐promotion–a much‐needed business tool. ‘Experience is a wholesome process’ had emerged as a meta‐theme connecting all six themes together into describing the student educational experience. The data obtained describe university life from the perspective of these participants. Barriers to participating in university life are identified and facilitating factors for satisfactory university life are explored. Further research is recommended to understand the factors in a university environment that prevent students who are disabled and use a wheelchair from succeeding. A few suggestions recommended by the researcher are: rural and suburban institutions could be studied separately; studies could be done exclusively with undergraduate or postgraduate students; separate studies should be done with students with different disability categories and disability levels; the support network could be included in the data collection. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Effects of trauma on children: occupational therapy to support recovery
Authors: Davis Janis
Published: March 2006

Each year millions of the world's children witness, are victimized by or participate in traumatic events, placing them at risk for developing post‐traumatic stress disorder. If this disorder is left untreated, a child's developmental trajectory can be compromised. Occupational therapists are in key positions to recognize the signs and symptoms of post‐traumatic stress in children that interfere with functioning. Expressive therapies, long used in occupational therapy practice, are well suited to help children achieve an adaptive response to trauma. Two brief case studies are presented, describing the application of occupational therapy using expressive media with children who experienced post‐traumatic stress disorders. The results of this preliminary investigation suggest that occupational therapists working in early intervention programmes can be helpful in identifying children in need and in providing treatment based on expressive therapies, stress management and cognitive‐behavioural modalities. Further research is recommended to examine the efficacy of different occupational therapy frames of reference in treating children with post‐traumatic stress disorder. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Inappropriate client sexual behaviour in occupational therapy
Authors: Schneider Julie , Weerakoon Patricia , Heard Rob
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence and nature of inappropriate client sexual behaviour (ICSB) in occupational therapy practice in New South Wales, Australia. The effects of ICSB on therapists, and the perception of it as sexual harassment, as well as responses to ICSB were also explored. A self‐administered questionnaire was mailed to a random stratified sample of occupational therapists. Results indicate that ICSB, although often not perceived as sexual harassment, does occur in occupational therapy practice. About half of the therapists exposed to ICSB reported negative consequences, primarily negative effects on work performance and psychological stress. Commonly, therapists responded to an incident of ICSB by discussing it with the client, although many chose to ignore it. Most respondents attribute the behaviour to pathological disease‐oriented factors. This area of occupational therapy practice requires further research, particularly in terms of factors that influence the prevalence and perception of the behaviour. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The relationship between sensory defensiveness, anxiety, depression and perception of pain in adults
Authors: Kinnealey Moya , Fuiek Margo
Published: March 2006

The impact of sensory defensiveness on performance, behaviour and adjustment of children has been addressed in the literature, but little has been written concerning its impact on adults. The purpose of this study was to explore whether sensory‐defensive adults had more symptoms of anxiety, depression and pain than adults without sensory defensiveness. Participants were 32 volunteers who were normal functioning adults aged 21 to 48 years, without physical or psychological diagnoses or history of abuse. They were screened to eliminate persons with undiagnosed psychological problems using the Forty‐eight Item Counseling Evaluation. Participants were assigned to a sensory‐defensive or non‐sensory‐defensive group based on their score on the ADULT‐SI, a sensory history interview, which assesses sensory defensiveness in adults. The two groups were matched for age, gender and race. Participants were then administered the IPAT Anxiety Scale, the IPAT Depression Scale and the Pain Apperception Test. Differences were found between sensory‐defensive and non‐defensive adults in anxiety (p=0.014) and depression (p=0.019), but not in pain perception. Analysis of the screening scores of the Forty‐eight Item Counseling Evaluation indicated an unexpected difference between groups in psychological adjustment (p=0.005). This study supports clinical impressions that sensory‐defensive adults differ from non‐defensive adults in some psychological parameters. A sequela of sensory defensiveness in adults may be a tendency towards increased symptoms of anxiety and depression. Further, investigation of sensory defensiveness and its sequelae in adults is recommended, using larger samples, more sensitive tools and various diagnostic categories. Exploration of the impact of sensory defensiveness on adult roles and performance and life satisfaction is also recommended. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Meaningful occupation for occupational therapy students: a student‐centred curriculum
Authors: Salvatori Penny
Published: March 2006

The need for meaningful occupation in various roles throughout the lifespan is central to the philosophy of occupational therapy. Client‐centred practice is another core concept that occupational therapists embrace; however, the use of such an approach when interacting with occupational therapy students as ‘clients’ is not evident in the occupational therapy literature. The purpose of this descriptive paper is to compare the principles of client‐centred practice and student‐centred learning and to describe how the occupational therapy programme at McMaster University in Canada has designed, organized and implemented a student‐centred, problem‐based curriculum. The educational research literature provides evidence that learning in such a curriculum is not only more enjoyable for students but also achieves positive outcomes in terms of self‐directed learning, transfer of learning to clinical practice and long‐term retention of knowledge. Feedback from McMaster students suggests that they are well prepared for professional practice and very satisfied with their education. It is concluded that learning in a student‐centred, problem‐based curriculum constitutes ‘meaningful occupation’ for occupational therapy students and is more consistent with principles of client‐centred practice than traditional, lecture‐based educational approaches. Although further research is needed, specifically in the field of occupational therapy education, occupational therapy educators throughout the world are encouraged to apply the values and beliefs that they espouse as occupational therapists and take up the challenge of providing more meaningful occupation for their students. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A cooperative inquiry study to identify strategies for group supervision in occupational therapy fieldwork placements
Authors: Mason Linda
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to identify effective strategies for supervising small groups of second‐year students in an occupational therapy fieldwork programme based on a collaborative group model. Contemporary models for fieldwork education over the past decade have involved more placements for students working in peer groups, to address the shortage of fieldwork placements and to create opportunities for students to work in a team environment. Discussion about these fieldwork options has focused on the perceived value of the programmes rather than on the processes used for supervising students in groups. The research methodology chosen for this study was cooperative inquiry because of its congruence with the qualitative nature of group supervision and the collaborative model on which the fieldwork programme was based. Thirteen of a total of 18 occupational therapy supervisors volunteered to participate in the study. Data about supervision skills that would enhance student learning were generated through a series of experiential action cycles in the fieldwork setting, interspersed with regular peer reflection meetings. The results highlighted a range of supervision strategies such as student orientation, the facilitation of peer discussion and reflection on practice, and encouragement by the supervisor for students to use resources in the fieldwork environment and to take responsibility for their own learning. The depth of data gained from the study may have been limited owing to time constraints and other commitments of research participants. A social culture of mutual learning and support was established through the cooperative inquiry process, with potential for building ongoing relationships and participant awareness of educational innovations. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.