bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of University Students towards the Sexuality of Physically Disabled People
Authors: Chandani Ashok T , McKenna Kryss T , Maas Frederick
Published: April 2015

A questionnaire, containing 36 sentence stubs, was given to a random sample of 43 male and 37 female undergraduates at an Australian university. Of the 36 sentence stubs, 13 were concerned with the sexuality of disabled women, 5 with sexuality in general and 18 with other social issues. Subjects were asked to complete the sentences rapidly with the first thought that came to mind. The Cochran Q test showed significantly more non-acceptance of sexuality of disabled women than of sexuality in general, on three out of five parallel sentence stubs. On 13 sentence stubs related to the sexual behaviour of disabled women, 39% of all subjects gave negative responses, compared with 26% who gave negative responses to five sentence stubs related to the sexual behaviour of able-bodied persons. A chi-square analysis showed males to hold more negative attitudes towards the sexuality of disabled women than females (p < 0.05).
The Frequency of Perceptual Deficits after Stroke
Authors: Edmans J A , Lincoln N B
Published: April 2015

The frequency of perceptual problems in stroke patients was assessed using a standardised assessment, the Rivermead Perceptual Assessment Battery.1 One hundred and fifty stroke patients (75 right hemiplegic and 75 left hemiplegic), admitted consecutively to two general hospitals, were assessed one month after stroke, to identify the proportion with perceptual difficulties. Perceptual difficulties were identified in 71% of right hemiplegic stroke patients and 81% of left hemiplegic patients. They were identified in 97% of dysphasic right hemiplegic patients, compared to 47% of nondysphasic right hemiplegic patients, and 84% of female hemiplegic patients, compared to 67% of male hemiplegic patients. Unilateral neglect was identified in both right and left hemiplegic patients. The proportion of patients with neglect varied according to the measure chosen. The results indicate that perceptual problems are common following both right and left hemiplegic stroke, with unilateral neglect accounting for a relatively small proportion of the problems.
Drama with Elderly People
Authors: Huddleston Roz
Published: April 2015

This article looks at drama therapy in general, together with its aims, before concentrating on how drama can be applied while working with elderly people.
Development of an Occupational Therapy Service in Residential Homes for Elderly People
Authors: Raikes Serena , Sheppard Lorretta , Stephens Lalage
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapists are well established in Haringey's homes for elderly people and have often been called upon to share their knowledge and experience with other boroughs. The increase in the numbers of elderly people and the corresponding increased attention given to standards of care in old people's homes means that more occupational therapists are being employed in this area. This article outlines the development of the service and the current areas of occupational therapy involvement.
Establishing Bonding: A Case of Rebirth?
Authors: Milston Ann
Published: April 2015

This article describes a 2 1/2-year play-therapy relationship with an emotionally disturbed child and the involvement of his adoptive mother. It is hoped that it shows how necessary long-term therapy is for some very disturbed and damaged children, and how one mother came to experience the symbolic birth of her adopted child. A secure attachment between mother and child apparently became established and the beginnings of healing took place.
Psychological Support for Cancer Patients
Authors: Oldham Jane
Published: April 2015

This article describes the setting up, the development and the evaluation of an attempt to provide psychological help and support for cancer patients and their families within the National Health Service.
An Evaluation of Portable Ramps
Authors: Sweeney G M , Clarke A K , Harrison R A , Bulstrode S J
Published: April 2015

This article summarises the findings of a study which aimed to evaluate a selection of commercially available portable ramps in the United Kingdom. The ramps were tested by wheelchair users and ambulant disabled people, in order to assess ease of use, safety and user acceptance. Some points which should be taken into consideration when recommending or selecting a portable ramp are highlighted.
Effective Identification of Elderly Patients Requiring Occupational Therapy
Authors: Sainty Mandy
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a research project which examined, in a day hospital for elderly people, the problem of ineffective identification of new patients requiring occupational therapy. An initial interview by the occupational therapist was found to identify more patients requiring intervention than were directly referred by the medical staff. Occupational therapy interviews used in conjunction with direct referrals proved to be a feasible long-term method of improving the occupational therapy service.
Marketing Occupational Therapy: Imperative for the Future?
Authors: Penn Barbara , Penn Joe
Published: April 2015

The objective of this article is to establish and explore the potential contribution of marketing to the future of the occupational therapy profession. In the opinion of the authors, there are a number of factors, both current and predicted, which will require the profession to establish and maintain much closer contact with the consumers of its service. In order for the profession to take advantage of the established techniques which the discipline of marketing has to offer, it is necessary that a far wider degree of understanding and acceptance of the subject be achieved.
New Beginnings
Authors: Trafford Gill
Published: April 2015

This article is a non-scientific personal account of starting play therapy with children who are hospitalised and using an interpreter to communicate with them verbally.
The Acquisition of Social Skills by Children with Special Needs
Authors: Bracegirdle Hazel
Published: April 2015

This, the first article in the series, describes the rationale behind Argyle's social skills approach and lists the factors which probably influence social skills acquisition in childhood. Then, the special barriers imposed by handicap are discussed. Physical appearance, stigma and spoiled identity may all impede social development. The inability to execute smooth controlled movements interferes with non-verbal communications and speech difficulties are also frequently a problem. Finally, vulnerable children may have difficulty in learning social skills because of their impoverished environments and cognitive deficits.
Helping Young Girls Come to Terms with Sexual Abuse
Authors: Davis Sue
Published: April 2015

This article describes the process of setting up a treatment group for young sexually abused girls. It outlines the planning and organisation of the group and gives a brief synopsis of the activities used.
Developmental Social Skills Training Programmes: Are They Effective?
Authors: Bracegirdle Hazel
Published: April 2015

This article turns from a discussion of why it may be helpful to teach ‘special’ children social skills, and how this can best be done, to consider the findings of research psychologists. The small number of studies carried out have usually shown worthwhile improvements and it seems logical to offer social skills training to children who respond less well to other treatments. However, an important problem for both researchers and practitioners remains, that of defining competence in a way that reflects the child's needs rather than just the trainer's values.
Cardiac Rehabilitation: An Occupational Therapist's Perspective
Authors: Tomes Helen
Published: April 2015

This article is an account of the development of occupational therapy input to a newly established, multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation programme. It describes and evaluates what can be achieved by a full-time senior occupational therapist working in a post split between this specialty and a general medical caseload.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Part 2. Treatment and Prognosis
Authors: Drummond Avril
Published: April 2015

The second article looks at the treatment of Guillain-Barre syndrome (CBS) in respect of both the medical and the rehabilitation input. The particular individuality of the disease is underlined in the treatment process.
Index Medicus and Medline for Occupational Therapists. Part 2: An Introduction to Indexing Methods for Searchers
Authors: Roberts David
Published: April 2015

Index Medicus and its online equivalent, Medline, is the major bibliographic index in medicine. Although some journals central to occupational therapy are not covered, many citations in areas like rehabilitation and psychiatry will be relevant. Finding references accurately and comprehensively depends on correct searching technique and some understanding of the sophisticated indexing system. An overview of these topics is given in part 1 of the article, followed by a more detailed discussion with emphasis on rehabilitation, psychiatry and community care in part 2. Aspects of the system covered include specificity, coordination and the hierarchical nature of the indexing thesaurus and the relative merits of the published and online formats.
From Madness to Mental Health: A Brief History of Psychiatric Treatments in the UK from 1800 to the Present
Authors: Dickinson Eileen
Published: April 2015

The care and treatment of mentally ill people have largely been determined by social and political forces. The last two centuries have seen the emergence and decline of many treatments, all based on the flimsiest of hypotheses. Fads and fashions also dictated the most appropriate place for treatment. Community care is the latest in a long line. This concept is hardly new. Before 1800, mentally ill people were treated at home. This article seeks to challenge assumptions, such as faith in progress, and asserts that there is no cause for complacency.
Government Policy into Action: Good Discharge of Patients Leaving General Hospitals, Part 1
Authors: Sutcliffe Pip
Published: April 2015

This article summarises the Department of Health Circular (89)5 which requires health authorities to ensure good arrangements for patients' discharge from hospital. It reviews the literature on this topic and compares what has been said with what has been meant when professionals have written about their participation in the process of discharge. The second article deals with models of policy implementation by which the policy process can be analysed in order to inform implementation methods. It describes how implementation has been tackled so far in one health district.
Using Attitudes to Predict Daily Living Independence in Stroke Patients
Authors: Strudwicke A M , Gillespie C R , Sever E D
Published: April 2015

This study was carried out in order to examine the relationship between a patient's attitude towards his/her stroke and the effect that this would have upon progress in activities of daily living (ADL). Psychological, physiological and practical AOL tests were administered. A discriminant function analysis was applied to the data. The most effective discriminators were used to test the extent to which a patient could fee described as an achiever or a non-achiever in ADL, 6 months after onset, it was found that an ini tial ‘realistic’ attitude professed by the patient was related to success in ADL after 6 months.
Relaxation Training and Chronic Pain
Authors: Strong Jenny
Published: April 2015

McGill Pain Questionnaire profiles for 21 patients with chronic low back pain who underwent a relaxation training trial were recorded upon admission to the programme, at discharge from relaxation training and at follow-up. Significant differences were obtained on the following variables: present pain intensity, number of words chosen, pain rating index total, pain rating index sensory, pain rating index affective and pain rating index evaluative. Post-hoc testing revealed that, on four of the six variables, improvements were not maintained at follow-up, with significantly higher scores being recorded at follow-up than at discharge. Discussion centres on the possible way relaxation training influences the pain experience and the possibility of extraneous variables influencing these findings.
The Perceived Need for Occupational Therapy in Private Care Homes in Northern Ireland
Authors: Sage Jean , McWha Lindsay
Published: April 2015

This article examines the perceived need for occupational therapy in private care homes in Northern Ireland by reviewing the relevant literature and by reporting on a survey which used postal questionnaires to sample the attitudes and opinions of home managers and occupational therapists. The review points to the growing number of elderly people requiring care and to the influence of current Government policies which has led to the recent rapid expansion of private care homes. It also examines the existing provision of occupational therapy. The survey substantiates the research hypothesis and highlights several issues which require to be addressed before any real progress can be made in the provision of occupational therapists to the private care homes in Northern Ireland.
Sexuality Training in Occupational Therapy for People with a Learning Difficulty
Authors: Thompson Simon B N
Published: April 2015

Following referrals for sex education to both the occupational therapy and psychology departments, a sex education programme was designed, developed and implemented for a selection of nine individuals with a learning difficulty who were resident at St Margaret's Hospital, Birmingham. A policy and guidelines for sex education were agreed before designing the programme, which was found to be successful and statistically significant as measured by the Brook Questionnaire on Social and Sexual Knowledge.
The Effect of Assertiveness Training on Self-Esteem
Authors: Temple Sylvia , Robson Philip
Published: April 2015

Assertiveness training in groups drawn from the community and a psychiatric hospital is described. As an outcome marker, the self-esteem of these two samples was measured before and after the training, and at several months' follow-up, using a 30-item self-report questionnaire. For most participants, highly significant improvements in self-esteem were noted both at the end of the courses and at follow-up. The theoretical background to assertiveness training and a number of practical issues are discussed.
Aids and Adaptations: A New Practice Model, Part 2
Authors: Abraham Brian , Clamp Shan
Published: April 2015

Part 1 of this article presented a new practice model for the aids and adaptations area. In part 2, principles for casework, drawn from the practice model, are described. The use and value of the principles are illustrated by the presentation of a case typically characterised by a demand for a downstairs toilet. Further developments from the practice model are also indicated.
Muscle Function of the Hand during Resisted and Non-Resisted Activity
Authors: Palmer Phil
Published: April 2015

This article is a review of Investigations carried out by others into the active and passive participation of muscles during resisted and non-resisted finger work in the normal hand; of particular interest are electromyographic analyses which challenge some of the long-established ideas about muscle action during finger motion. The findings also show that, during grip, the intrinsic muscles ensure joint stability while the long flexors provide most of the force required. The implications for occupational therapy are discussed.
Towards a Truly Holistic Approach to Occupational Therapy
Authors: Hubbard Steven
Published: April 2015

Occupational therapy has always had problems explaining itself in reductionistic biomedical terms. This article looks at the reasons for this, challenges the ability of the model of human occupation to address this problem, and offers Engel's biopsychosocial model as an alternative.
An Overview of Occupational Therapy in the Context of the American Influence on the Profession: Part 1
Authors: Mocellin George
Published: April 2015

This article presents an overview of the genesis of the beliefs and values about occupational therapy as they emerged in the USA, reviews some of the factors associated with these developments, and questions the professional relevance of the concept of occupation as promulgated in the model of human occupation. Part 1 provides the background: it offers an historical outline of the beginning of occupational therapy in the USA, reflects on the meaning of occupation, and evaluates the concept of occupation as therapy. Part 2 considers the scientific aspects of occupation from a paradigmatic perspective, and concludes with suggesting that the concept of competence, rather than occupation, has provided and will continue to provide the philosophical underpinning for occupational therapy.
Easy Chairs for People with Arthritis and Low Back Pain: Results from an Evaluation
Authors: Sweeney Grace M , Clarke A K
Published: April 2015

This article reports the findings of a Department of Health study of easy chairs for people with ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis of the hips and generalised low back pain. Fifteen chairs were tested for comfort, support, ease of sitting and ease of egress by a sample of 100 subjects in a controlled setting. The results demonstrated that several of the tested chairs could be used comfortably by people with arthritis and low back pain, and that common design characteristics influenced comfort for all subjects.
How Do Clients Benefit from Snoezelen? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Long Anne P , Haig Lesley
Published: April 2015

An exploratory study involved observation of four clients of the Botleys Park Sensory/Snoezelen Environment (SSE) in both the SSE and the villa. The clients were not known to the observer and were selected at random. The aim of the study was to explore the hypothesis that a designed change in care will give rise to an observable change in the behaviour of the recipients of that care. The results indicated that there was an apparent difference in the behaviour of the four clients observed between the villa and the SSE. It was concluded that although the study did not allow proof of the hypothesis, it did indicate that there was an observable change in behaviour, which provided evidence that the hypothesis could withstand a design that would allow the hypothesis to be tested.
A Critical Evaluation of the Barthel Index, Part 1
Authors: Murdock Carolyn
Published: April 2015

This is the first of two articles critically evaluating the Barthel Index to measure activities of daily living (ADL). Part 1 examines the concept of ADL and looks at the index as an instrument for assessment. Part 2 will review evidence of its standardisation, validity and reliability.
Age as a Factor in the Classroom Verbal Participation of Occupational Therapy Students: Part 1, Literature Review
Authors: Paterson Catherine F
Published: April 2015

This literature review forms the first of two articles on a study to determine the effect of age on the verbal participation of occupational therapy students in the classroom. The literature was reviewed to establish the relevance of studying the implications of having students of a wide range of age and experience in the same classroom; to examine what already has been studied in relation to adult and mature students; to establish the importance of discussion to learning; and, finally, to identify the factors that affect students' participation.
Assertiveness Training for Clients with a Psychiatric Illness: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brown G Ted , Carmichael Karin
Published: April 2015

The current literature documents a need for assertiveness training for clients with a psychiatric illness, in order to address this need, a programme was designed and implemented to provide clients with practical techniques to enable them to communicate in a more effective, assertive manner. The frames of reference for the programme were the model of human occupation and social teaming theory. Data were collected over a 2-year period from 33 clients with a psychiatric illness who participated in a 7-week training programme. The investigation incorporated a prospective one-group, pre-test/post-test design. The Rathus assertiveness schedule and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale were used to measure changes in assertiveness and self-esteem. A t-test analysis of the pre-test and post-test scores attained by group participants on both scales indicated a statistically significant increase in their level of assertive behaviour and self-esteem. A brief review of the pertinent literature and a description of the assertiveness training programme are provided. Programme evaluation results and recommendations for further research are also discussed.
The Growth of Private Practice in Occupational Therapy in Great Britain
Authors: Cossar Anne
Published: April 2015

By means of a questionnaire issued to the 65 therapists registered on the COT Private Practice Directory 1989, a study gathered demographic details and information regarding the growth of private practice, diversity of practice and referral sources. It appeared that trends emerging amongst occupational therapists in the private sector might be pre-empting trends in the occupational therapy profession in general. With decreasing resources and the introduction of competitive tendering in the public sector, more therapists might have to re-examine their services in terms of cost-effectiveness. It seemed that colleagues in the private sector had already rationalised their services in order to compete in the marketplace. Those skills that were highly visible, in the physical, domiciliary and litigation areas of work, predominated. The findings have implications for those occupational therapy services presently without proven effectiveness which require urgent research to prevent their further decline.
Age as a Factor in the Classroom Verbal Participation of Occupational Therapy Students, Part 2: Report of a Study
Authors: Paterson Catherine F
Published: April 2015

Both the first and second year cohorts (session 1989/90) of the Department of Occupational Therapy of The Robert Gordon institute of Technology, formerly the Grampian School of Occupational Therapy, took part in the study. Each group comprised almost equal numbers of standard-aged students and students aged 21 years and over and were observed for 12 hours of normal classes to quantify each student's verbal participation. The classroom observation was supplemented by questionnaires to the students to probe their perceptions of answering and asking questions and taking part in discussion. The results of the observation were statistically significant, demonstrating that the older the student the more likely he/she was to speak in class. The questionnaires confirmed that the quieter students perceived themselves as participating less, the main reason for their reticence being communication anxiety.
Concepts of Case Management
Authors: Øvretveit John
Published: April 2015

Uncertainty about the future role of occupational therapists is compounded by confusion about case management. Will occupational therapists be case managers, or will their services be bought by case managers? What will case management involve, and will it fit in with existing multidisciplinary teams? This article describes different concepts of case management and considers how the idea has worked with multidisciplinary teams in the pilot studies reported in the literature. It concludes that case management is sometimes a development of occupational therapists' existing role, and sometimes a completely different job for which occupational therapists are eligible; is one of many solutions to improving the coordination of care; of itself does not resolve problems of interagency and interprofessional cooperation; is needed only for some clients, and sometimes only for part of their contact with a service; is one of many ways to arrange simple, practical and flexible home care; and is sometimes integrated into existing teams, and sometimes requires a new team of case managers.
Occupational Who? Never Heard of Them! An Audit of Patient Awareness of Occupational Therapists
Authors: McAvoy Elma
Published: April 2015

To judge patients' awareness of previous and current occupational therapy, 89 patients attending the clinics of two neurologists were interviewed by an occupational therapist. Information given by the patient on prior and continuing contact with domiciliary occupational therapists was then verified by questionnaires to the community-based therapists. Both sets of responses were collated and compared. Patients were also sent questionnaires 3 months after being seen at the clinic, in which they were asked if they remembered seeing the therapist at the clinic. Of 75 patients who had been seen previously by a domiciliary occupational therapist, 24 were unaware of the contact; of 31 patients who had some form of intervention in progress, 14 did not report any of this work; and of 80 patients surveyed after 3 months, 10 did not remember seeing the therapist at the clinic. Possible reasons for this lack of awareness are discussed and suggestions made as to how it might be improved.
The Casson Memorial Lecture 1992: Always a Little Further
Authors: Stewart Averil M
Published: April 2015

This lecture was given at the College of Occupational Therapists' Annual Conference at Loughborough University of Technology on 17 July 1992. The theme combines personal views about the opportunities and threats currently facing the profession along with consideration of personal strategies for coping with change and how the education of students can help prepare them for the future. The text was accompanied by graphic representations and personal photographs of ‘adventuring’, together with posters prepared by second year students at Queen Margaret College as part of the health psychology syllabus.
Sexuality and Low Back Pain: A Response to Patients' Needs
Authors: Ritchie M H , Daines B
Published: April 2015

Awareness of the way that sexual problems arise as a result of chronic illness is growing, including the difficulties of back pain patients. The work of a problem back unit in relation to patients' sexual difficulties is described, together with the production of a leaflet for patients. Conclusions are drawn about the possible role of the occupational therapist in treating sexual problems resulting from back and leg pain.
How Can We Facilitate the Return of Occupational Therapists to the Profession after a Break in Service?
Authors: Turner Ann
Published: April 2015

This article describes some of the problems encountered by occupational therapists returning to the profession after several years' break in service. A questionnaire was used to highlight the problems experienced by these occupational therapists and their senior colleagues, and suggestions were made on how to facilitate this transition.
Measures of Outcome: For Whom?
Authors: Austin Chris , Clark Charles R
Published: April 2015

There is an increasing demand to provide measures of outcome. This article outlines different perspectives on the concept of measures of outcome and considers issues that complicate the practical use of such measures. It is argued that the ultimate responsibility for the development of measures of outcome must remain with the therapist.
Core Skills and Competencies: Part 1, What is Experience?
Authors: Hollis Vivien
Published: April 2015

In this first article of a series of four, the focus is on outlining the perception of authors who are concerned with the acquisition of professional expertise. This work is related to the reasons for and the difficulty in defining specifically what occupational therapists do without having to resort to listing technical tasks. This is especially relevant now, more than ever, as occupational therapists are asked to justify and defend local and national career structures in terms of input and outcomes for clients' needs.

Part 2 will describe the competency approach as a method of clarifying the input of occupational therapy practitioners. Part 3 will detail research carried out in this field and give examples of the competencies of occupational therapists from basic grade to head level, showing graded levels of expertise. Lastly, part 4 will demonstrate the practical application of this work.
Commentary on ‘A Critical Evaluation of the Barthel Index’
Authors: Shah Surya , Cooper Betty
Published: April 2015

The Barthel Index is the most extensively researched scale and is considered superior to and more robust than any other ADL scale. The Barthel scores can gauge the need for care and help to report therapeutically meaningful and valid information of patient outcomes. Rehabilitation workers can feel confident in advocating the use of the Bl, as modified by Shah et al in 1989, as the preferred measure of ADL.
Massage as a Therapeutic Tool, Part 1
Authors: Westland Gill
Published: April 2015

The first part of this article defines massage, outlines some of the various systems of massage and discusses the importance of touch. The second part will look at research into the clinical application of massage and contraindications to and precautions in the use of massage.
Job Stress in Occupational Therapy: Coping Strategies, Stress Management Techniques and Recommendations for Change
Authors: Sweeney Grace M , Nichols Keith A , Cormack Maggie
Published: April 2015

This article, the second in a series of two on job stress in occupational therapy, reports the results of 30 semi-structured interviews with a random sample of occupational therapists from the Bath District Health Authority and selected local authority social services departments. All 30 subjects had participated in a larger study which set out to identify the factors contributing to job stress in this professional group,1 and the follow-up interviews aimed to examine coping strategies which were used by the subjects in their work situation. This is an applied article, where the attempt is to distil the main findings of the combined studies (the postal survey and the interviews) to recover information that can be made available to occupational therapy managers and to clinical occupational therapists.
Powered Wheelchairs and Tetraplegic Patients: Improving the Service
Authors: Curtin Michael
Published: April 2015

To improve the powered wheelchair service offered to patients with a spinal cord injury, the occupational therapy staff at the National Spinal Injuries Centre conducted a literature review, carried out a survey of current powered wheelchair users and arranged demonstrations of the majority of powered wheelchairs available in the United Kingdom. The information gathered from this enabled the therapists to update their knowledge, and provided them with material to run a powered wheelchair assessment clinic where each patient can receive objective and informed guidance on which wheelchairs are most suitable for his/her needs. To assist patients further with their decision, they were able to try a variety of powered wheelchairs and options for an extended period of time.
What Gives You Sleepless Nights? Ethical Practice in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Barnitt Rosemary
Published: April 2015

Therapists have always encountered ethical problems at work. However, these are becoming more important as changes in health care systems take place and patients' rights and autonomy become dominant in practice. An introduction is given to ethical theories and processes, and these are related to clinical issues identified during a series of research studies with occupational therapists and physiotherapists.
The Awareness of and Need for Occupational Therapy Equipment and Adaptations for Elderly People
Authors: Goldthorpe S B , Lloyd Neil
Published: April 2015

A postal survey of one general practitioner's elderly patients (over the age of 65 years) was undertaken to access the awareness of and perceived needs for community occupational therapy provision of equipment and adaptations. A high response rate was achieved (>80%). The results showed a general lack of awareness of this aspect of a community occupational therapist's role, and a population need previously unknown. The implications for resource planning are discussed.
Social Role Valorisation and the Model of Human Occupation: A Comparative Analysis for Work with People with a Learning Disability in the Community
Authors: Platts Lesley
Published: April 2015

This article presents overviews of Social Role Valorisation as proposed by Wolfensberger and the Model of Human Occupation as suggested by Kielhofner et al, and contrasts their underlying fundamental beliefs related to people with a learning disability. It discusses why an occupational therapist should encompass Social Role Valorisation as a sound philosophy for service provision together with the Model of Human Occupation. This provides a unique role for occupational therapy which complements other disciplines and facilitates people with a learning disability to achieve maximum functioning and independence over their own lives for as long as they wish to do so.
The Clinical Usefulness of the Rivermead Perceptual Assessment Battery: Statistical Considerations
Authors: Matthey Stephen , Donnelly Sharon M , Hextell Donna L
Published: April 2015

The Rivermead Perceptual Assessment Battery (RPAB) is designed to assess visual perception deficits in people suffering from stroke and head Injury. It Is one of the few standardised perceptual assessments specifically developed for occupational therapists. This article examines some aspects of the statistical background of the RPAB. The RPAB authors have reported limited statistical data, which Is Insufficient to understand fully the clinical usefulness of this assessment tool.

Reliability and validity are examined and the implications of test results are discussed. The true score range for patients on each subtest is calculated, as well as the amount of change over time required before clinicians can be confident that such change represents a real improvement or decline In the patient's ability. Further, the discriminative power of each subtest is examined, as are the criteria for determining the presence and type of perceptual deficit. These statistical analyses were based on the data reported in the test's manual, as well as from patients assessed at The Prince Henry Hospital, Sydney, over a 2-year period.
An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Educational Gaming as a Teaching Method for Therapists
Authors: Roberts Anne Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

This article describes an experimental study that examined the cognitive gain of occupational therapy students following either a traditional lecture method or an active gaming session. The students completed an identical pre-test, post-test and follow-up test in order to assess learning scores. They also rated their enjoyment of the intervention. At post-test, the lecture group showed superior cognitive gains. However, at a subsequent follw-up test after a number of weeks there were no significant differences, indicating that recall was the same for both the lecture and the game. A significant difference was observed in the interest and enjoyment value of the intervention, in favour of the game group. Finally, consideration of the confounding variables experienced in this study provides an insight into the difficulties of executing valid experimental research in the field of education.
Dysfunctional Attitudes in Patients with Depression: A Study of Patients Admitted to a Private Psychiatric Hospital
Authors: Gilbert Jillian , Strong Jenny
Published: April 2015

Forty-one patients admitted to hospital with depression participated in a cognitive-behavioural group therapy programme for an average of 26.12 hours. Subjects completed the Beck Depression Inventory, the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale and the Beck Anxiety Inventory on admission and discharge. Highly significant changes were found at discharge on the Beck Depression Inventory and the Beck Anxiety Inventory, as were significant changes in the Dysfunctional Attitudes Subscales of approval and autonomy. Discussion focuses on the relationship between depression and dysfunctional attitudes and their relationship to self-reported anxiety in depressed individuals.
Creative Therapy and the Question of Disposal: What Happens to Created Pieces following the Session?
Authors: Patrick Janet , Winship Gary
Published: April 2015

The disposal of a created piece, when art has been used as a medium for therapy, is a most important stage in the therapeutic process. This article reviews the theory regarding disposal and presents case vignettes outlining a variety of approaches. These approaches are discussed and a framework for intervention is offered.
Establishing Psychosocial Occupational Therapy in an Arab Country
Authors: Busuttil Joseph
Published: April 2015

In setting up an occupational therapy college in Jordan, the author had to undertake the conjoint task of establishing occupational therapy in the mental health field. This article reviews some of the background to psychiatry in the Middle East, and dwells upon a number of developments which took place in carrying out the project.
Learning Morse Code in Rehabilitation: Visual, Auditory, or Combined Method?
Authors: Jarus Tal
Published: April 2015

The use of Morse code in rehabilitation applications is usually taught by visual or auditory methods. Yet, people experienced in Morse code use in land-line and radio telegraphy suggest that encoding and decoding rates can be enhanced through primary reliance on auditory methods for mastering the code. This study investigated the best way to learn Morse code. Sixty healthy adults with no preliminary knowledge of Morse code, ages 18 to 30 years, participated. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups to learn the Morse code through three different methods: visual chart reference method; auditory method using computer software; and combined method. After the practice period, the encoding rate and accuracy were tested using a handwriting test. One-way analysis of variance was used for each of the two measurements: time and error.

Subjects from the combined method group were significantly faster than subjects from the visual method, and had significantly fewer errors than subjects in the auditory method. Therefore, if both time and accuracy of conveyance are important, it appears that learning through both the visual and the auditory systems allow the subjects best to internalise the codes as language. These conclusions should apply not only for the teaching of clients, but also when mastering the Morse code as clinicians.
The Performance and Experience of Normal Elderly People on the Chessington Occupational Therapy Neurological Assessment Battery (COTNAB)
Authors: Laver Alison J , Huchison Sandra
Published: April 2015

COTNAB was initially developed for a 16–65 year old population of patients with head injury and stroke. A large proportion of neurological patients referred to occupational therapy are over 65. Without age-appropriate normative data, COTNAB cannot be used to assess these older patients in a valid and reliable manner. The purpose of this study was to collect initial normative data on elderly subjects and consider the appropriateness of the assessment for older patients. Forty-seven elderly subjects aged 65–87 were assessed on the COTNAB, and completed a questionnaire evaluating their experience of being tested and their perceptions regarding the relevance of the COTNAB subtests for their age and sex. The performance of the elderly subjects was found to vary from that of younger subjects assessed during previous normative studies. Scoring tables for ability, time and overall performance were constructed for an over-65 population.
The Development and Future of Occupational Therapy from a Swedish Perspective
Authors: Henriksson Chris
Published: April 2015

Keynote address, given to the 11th International Congress of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, 17–22 April 1994, London.
Networking between Therapists Interested in Research: How to Set up a Support Group
Authors: Ballinger Claire , Pomeroy Valerie , Melville Helena
Published: April 2015

A local initiative in Southampton attempted to address therapy researchers' needs for networking support and information. A multidisciplinary research support group meets every 2 months to share ideas and experiences of research. This article outlines information about the group: Its development, role and possible future directions. It is hoped that therapists interested or involved in research might feel inspired to consider doing the same in other locations.
Sexuality Training in Occupational Therapy for People with a Learning Disability, Four Years On: Policy Guidelines
Authors: Thompson Simon B N
Published: April 2015

Four years ago, work was started on a draft policy for use in sexuality training in occupational therapy for people with a learning disability. Guidelines are now presented to provide a practical framework for occupational therapists to develop their own policy according to individual working conditions and issues relevant to their particular client group.
Insights into ‘Practice’ Communication: An Interactional Approach
Authors: Jenkins Mary , Mallett John , O'Neill Carmel , McFadden Mairead , Baird Helen
Published: April 2015

This article presents data collected in actual occupational therapy practice settings. The purpose of this naturalistic exercise is to provide a better understanding of the characteristics of best practice across the spectrum of practitioners - diplomates, graduates, students and assistants - by exploring the relationships between practitioner and client and noting individual, intragroup and intergroup differences. Two Independent observers viewed and audio-taped eight treatment sessions undertaken by two practitioners from each group. Characterising the interactional process indicated that best practice arises when there is a more egalitarian relationship between practitioner and client and where the practitioner not only encourages but also invites client participation. This behaviour was most evident among diplomates.
Making Sense of Multisensory Rooms for People with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Thompson Simon B N , Martin Sarah
Published: April 2015

Clients' preferences for situations and stimuli were collected from exposure to a number of different environments before their responses were collected from the presentation of sensory stimuli. The aim of the study was to discern which novel stimuli were preferred by individual clients. Six clients with moderate learning disabilities were presented individually with a selection of sensory stimuli in a specially equipped multisensory room. Results showed the specific preferences of individual clients as well as overall stimuli preferences across clients. The systematic presentation of sensory stimuli to this client group enabled an objective evaluation of clients' preferences and facilitated clear feedback of information to keyworkers and care managers responsible for these clients.
Attitudes, Values and Orientation to Professional Practice: A Study of Australian Occupational Therapists
Authors: Adamson Barbara J , Sinclair-Legge Gael , Cusick Anne , Nordholm Lena
Published: April 2015

In recent years, the biomedical approach in the delivery of health care has been challenged by the ‘new public health’ model which promotes a humanistic, holistic approach to health care. Whilst occupational therapy has traditionally embraced this latter approach, evidence suggests that within the profession there is concern that technical advances (for example, the introduction of increasingly sophisticated equipment) have eroded many of the characteristics of a humanistic orientation to therapy. The extent to which occupational therapists endorse this new model was addressed in a survey of attitudes of practising occupational therapists (n = 378). A 22-item questionnaire, including aspects of therapist's knowledge and techniques, client characteristics, client-therapist relationships and approaches to professional practice, was modified and adapted for use with occupational therapists.

The findings indicated that attitudes reflecting the new public health model — emphasising client-therapist interaction, client responsibility and holistic attitudes toward health care — prevailed, together with the therapist's knowledge and skills. Age and years of professional experience yielded significant differences, with older (30 or more years of age) and more professionally experienced (6 or more years) therapists endorsing a humanistic approach to therapy to a greater extent and with a greater emphasis on promoting the resources of the client than their younger and less professionally experienced counterparts. Recommendations for the education of occupational therapists and for professional practice are made, together with suggestions for further research.
Prevocational Training within a Secure Environment: A Programme Designed to Enable the Forensic Patient to Prepare for Mainstream Opportunities
Authors: Garner Ruth
Published: April 2015

In England, employment training is continually moving towards funding according to, in part, outcome or progression of clients. Courses are becoming generally shorter and access to training is becoming more competitive. The flexibility within employment training to accommodate the mental health user is slowly disappearing. Add to that the label of ‘offender’ and even more barriers face the individual.

At Reaside Clinic, the West Midlands Regional Secure Unit, a prevocational programme has been developed over the past 3 years. This has enabled forensic inpatients to access training that allows for fluctuations in mental state, restriction orders, pace of learning, medication and lack of knowledge of vocational opportunities. The programme has equipped the participants with the skills to compete realistically in mainstream provision. Funding of the development has been ‘creative’ but the organisation has been committed to the programme because of the value to the patient, the networking that has been achieved within Birmingham, and the awareness that this has raised within other organisations of issues related to mental health in general and forensic psychiatry in particular.
The Treatment of Visual Neglect Using the Transfer of Training Approach
Authors: Fanthome Y , Lincoln N B , Drummond A E R , Walker M F , Edmans J A
Published: April 2015

Fourteen patients with visual neglect following a right hemisphere stroke were identified using the Behavioural Inattention Test. Patients received no practice on perceptual tasks for 4 weeks. Their abilities were assessed weekly. All patients then received practice on perceptual tasks designed to improve visual neglect for 4 weeks and results were analysed as single cases using an AB design. Only 3 of the 14 patients completing the study showed improved perceptual test scores following the introduction of treatment. These had the most severe visual neglect. The transfer of training approach does not appear to enhance the recovery of visual neglect in the majority of patients, although a few patients with severe problems may benefit.
Self-Awareness of Deficits following Acquired Brain Injury: Considerations for Rehabilitation
Authors: Fleming Jennifer , Strong Jenny
Published: April 2015

Limitations in self-awareness of deficits after acquired brain injury can hamper client participation in rehabilitation programmes. The concept of self-awareness encompasses awareness of brain injury related deficits, an appreciation of the functional consequences of deficits, and the ability to translate that information into realistic goals. A literature review suggests that the development of self-awareness can be associated with emotional distress in the individual. Self-awareness and emotional adjustment factors may both affect behavioural change in the individual, which may influence outcome. The widely held belief that self-awareness is necessary for successful outcomes from rehabilitation requires further investigation.