bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retired People's Experience of Participation in Art Classes
Authors: Bedding Sarah , Sadlo Gaynor
Published: April 2015

The role that different activities play in contributing to retired people's wellbeing is not well understood, a situation that needs to be addressed now that a long period of retirement is becoming the norm for millions of people in western societies. Research carried out over the last decade has explored some aspects of participation in various activities, such as exercise, but only a few studies have explored retirees' own perspectives. This qualitative research used phenomenological methods to explore art class activity as experienced by six retired people living in the community. The participants' perspectives were explored using unstructured interviews. The data were analysed using a phenomenological approach, as outlined by Van Kaam (1959, and described by Streubert and Carpenter 1995), and the participants then confirmed the findings.

Painting added a special dimension to the particpants' retirement: it gave satisfaction, challenge, time transformation, a sense of achievement, productivity and a boost to confidence. These results confirm and extend previous studies that link creative activities to wellbeing, including those that reveal how positive emotions contribute to health. Actual attendance at an art class was also seen as valuable, because working in a group was experienced as an inspiration and an opportunity to be encouraged by and to learn from others. The activity and the socialising seemed to be equally important aspects of attending an art class, which supports Wilcock's (2007) latest theories of the benefits of belonging. This research may contribute to the justification for participation in art or craft activity within the community, in occupational therapy practice or in settings such as residential homes, by providing further understanding of its meaning and value for retirees and its potential for promoting their health.
Content Validity, Clinical Utility, Sensitivity to Change and Discriminant Ability of the Swedish Satisfaction with Daily Occupations (SDO) Instrument: A Screening Tool for People with Mental Disorders
Authors: Eklund Mona , Gunnarsson A Birgitta
Published: April 2015

A screening tool for assessing satisfaction with daily occupations among people with mental illness has been devised — the Swedish version of the Satisfaction with Daily Occupations (SDO) instrument — comprising a satisfaction scale and an activity level scale. The aim was to investigate the SDO for content validity, clinical utility, sensitivity to change and discriminant ability.

Nine occupational therapists evaluated the content validity of the SDO. Sensitivity to change was assessed on a sample of 36 clients in psychosocial occupational therapy. Discriminant ability was evaluated by comparing four samples: (1) 103 clients with a diagnosis of severe mental illness, (2) 55 clients attending an outpatient mental health clinic, (3) 36 women with a diagnosis of systemic sclerosis and (4) 40 healthy women.

The SDO rendered positive ratings regarding content validity, but some rewording of items was indicated as well as clearer instructions. Both the satisfaction scale and the activity level scale were found to be responsive to change. Discriminant ability was shown in that, in particular, the activity level score distinguished the mentally ill participants from the other samples.

The SDO was shown to reflect the targeted phenomenon satisfactorily and to be sensitive enough to detect change following an occupational therapy intervention. However, so far only the Swedish version of the SDO has been studied, but an English version is available whose cross-cultural validity should be examined.
Promoting Physical Activity in Acute Mental Health
Authors: Jones Lisa
Published: April 2015

Government initiatives, such as mental health promotion and social inclusion, have influenced the provision of physical activity to clients on an inpatient acute mental health unit in north Manchester. The use of physical activity as an intervention fits well with the Model of Human Occupation and is particularly relevant to the concepts of volition and personal causation. This practice analysis discusses the current interventions taking place in north Manchester and expands on some of the theory and policy initiatives that influence practice. Suggestions for improvements in the service are then made based on a critical reflection of existing practice.
Use of Assessment Methods in Paediatrics: The Practice of Private Occupational Therapists
Authors: Diamantis Andreas D
Published: April 2015

This study is part of a larger research project investigating the assessment practices of paediatric occupational therapists in independent practice in the United Kingdom. The focus of this paper is the identification of the assessment methods used and the factors influencing respondents' satisfaction with them. The research design was a cross-sectional descriptive survey using a postal questionnaire as the data collection tool.

Out of 89 questionnaires sent, 66 (74%) were returned and 48 (54%) were deemed usable. The findings demonstrated that the respondents used a combination of assessment methods, with interviewing being used by all of them. The majority of the respondents were satisfied with the methods that they used. The most frequently mentioned factors influencing the respondents' satisfaction level were issues concerning standardised tests and the quality and quantity of the information gathered about the client.

The implications for clinical practitioners include the benefits of using a combination of assessment methods and their selection after extensive clinical reasoning. Moreover, the use of interviewing is stressed and its multiple purposes are pointed out.
Occupational Therapy and the Current Ecological Crisis
Authors: Hudson Mark J , Aoyama Mami
Published: April 2015

It is argued that occupational therapy's focus on activities related to wellbeing puts it in a privileged position to contribute practical measures to stem the social and ecological threats posed by current human impacts on the natural environment. Three areas in which occupational therapy could contribute such measures are summarised briefly. These are (1) help in understanding how people negotiate and adjust their daily activities in situations of ecological and social stress; (2) interventions that link the conservation of biodiversity with the conservation of occupations; and (3) a renewed focus on balance in the everyday activities of people in the industrialised world.
Transpersonal Identity and Human Occupation
Authors: Collins Mick
Published: April 2015

Transpersonal experiences may have an impact on existing ego/identity boundaries, which can initiate a process of psychospiritual development. The prefix ‘trans’, as in transpersonal, can mean ‘transcending’, such as going beyond existing parameters of identity; or it can mean ‘transforming’, such as a shift in awareness from one state to another. The effects of transpersonal experiences can often lead to different ways of ‘knowing’, which can have a direct impact upon ways of ‘being’ and ‘doing’. This opinion piece considers how developments in transpersonal studies are applicable to human occupation. The human potential that could be explored through the interface between transpersonal identity and occupational identity is discussed.
Moving into Housing: Experiences of Developing Specialist Occupational Therapy Posts in Local Authority Housing Departments
Authors: Grisbrooke Jani , Scott Saffron
Published: April 2015

The pathways for the delivery of adaptations to the homes of people with disabilities are complex, incorporating social care expertise together with funding and building experience from housing professionals. Integrating the housing and social care departments does not necessarily lead to smoother working. A number of authorities have taken the option of moving or seconding occupational therapists from social care into housing to have better coordination of the delivery of adaptations and improvement of working practice between the disparate professionals involved.

This qualitative study aimed to explore, through semi-structured interviews, the experiences of nine occupational therapists establishing and developing these new posts. Background information about the establishment of these posts was collated. The thematic analysis of data by two researchers taking an interpretive phenomenological perspective identified five themes: practitioner freedom versus isolation, strategic versus operational roles, professional cultural differences, learning and development, and evaluation and aspiration.

For managers founding such posts and for practitioners moving into them, the findings of this study offer insights into what helped and hindered these practitioners, what surprised them and how their development needs were identified, which informed their intentions for the future of their posts.
Boredom as an Important Area of Inquiry for Occupational Therapists
Authors: Martin Marion
Published: April 2015

This opinion piece argues that boredom should be considered as an important area of research by occupational therapists, although it has been somewhat neglected in the past. Literature on the subject identifies diverse causes of boredom, including occupational deprivation; however, it is not clear why the experience should be so prevalent in a culture where opportunities for engagement in activity are unprecedented. Boredom appears to be a subject of concern for people using mental health services as well as for the general population, but there is virtually no evidence of an effective way of overcoming the experience. Some areas for investigation are suggested.
Graduates' Reflections on their Preparation for Practice
Authors: Robertson Linda J , Griffiths Sian
Published: April 2015

New graduates are the life blood of the occupational therapy profession. It is important that they are equipped to practise in the current health care environment and are confident about their professional contribution. This New Zealand study explored new graduates' perceptions of how well they had been prepared for practice, using three focus groups of graduates from one occupational therapy programme. The findings confirmed that the biggest issues for new graduates were searching for role clarity, inadequate supervision, an insufficient grasp of skills and uncertainty in team responsibility, underpinned by a lack of confidence. Conversely, they felt confident about their ability to research and find information in response to gaps in their knowledge.

This study demonstrates that learning how to ‘be’ an occupational therapist is as important as receiving formal supervision, and suggests that learning how to contextualise and reconstruct knowledge is essential in preparation for graduation. The stressful situations experienced in the first months of practice could be minimised through opportunities to learn how to repackage knowledge, observe role models and have supervision that provides confirmation of plans and bridges the theory-practice divide.
Voluntary Work for Adults with Mental Health Problems: A Route to Inclusion? A Review of the Literature
Authors: Farrell Carol , Bryant Wendy
Published: April 2015

Voluntary work is seen as a key component of promoting mental health through social inclusion. For many years, occupational therapists have worked in partnership with voluntary organisations to facilitate access for service users to voluntary placements. Yet there is little published evidence to support this aspect of occupational therapy or to indicate specific successful strategies, especially in establishing successful placements beyond mental health services. This review examined the existing evidence, discussing the implications for occupational therapy.

The findings indicate a need for further research to ascertain the benefits of volunteering, the barriers and the ways to improve access for people with mental health problems. Occupational therapists, with their unique synthesis of knowledge and skills concerning occupation, enabling and client-centred practice (Townsend and Wilcock 2004), should be well placed to be able to respond to these issues, yet the literature does not provide evidence that they have risen to the challenge.
Working in Mental Health and Deafness
Authors: Shinton Emma , Mairs Hilary
Published: April 2015

The publication of Towards Equality and Access (Department of Health 2004) made clear the intention of the Department of Health to locate the care and treatment of deaf people with mental health problems within local rather than national services. It is, therefore, more likely that this group will be referred, at least initially, to local services, who may have limited experience of, and indeed inadequate resources for, working with people who are deaf and have mental health problems. This opinion piece outlines guidance for therapists and others working in mental health services with this group, focusing specifically upon deaf people who use British Sign Language as a first language.
Internationalising Occupational Therapy Education
Authors: Horton Ayana
Published: April 2015

Internationalisation in higher education involves the incorporation of international themes into teaching and learning and is an important tool that occupational therapy education programmes can use to prepare students to work in culturally diverse environments. Research indicates that internationalised education programmes aid students in developing a better understanding of their own values and beliefs, an understanding of and respect for other cultures, a wider view of their profession, and verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Recent developments in occupational therapy, such as the understanding of how international issues affect daily occupations, the changing demographics of the client base and the widening scope of practice, have increased the need for education programmes to embrace internationalisation.
What Helps and Hinders People with Psychotic Conditions Doing What They Want in Their Daily Lives
Authors: Cook Sarah , Chambers Eleni
Published: April 2015

It is important for people to do what they want in their daily lives and this is embedded in concepts of recovery, rehabilitation, social inclusion and quality of life. To research what helps and hinders people with psychotic conditions to do what they want, 24 people already engaged in a trial of occupational therapy were interviewed by a service user researcher. The qualitative methods used framework analysis.

The findings described what the participants appreciated about occupational therapy and how other workers sometimes delivered occupational therapy type interventions. As well as therapy, multifarious factors appeared to have an impact on people's choices and actions and these reiterated the findings from prior studies. These internal and external factors combined in complex relationships. People felt particularly vulnerable when staff behaved uncaringly and with disrespect because this replicated past traumas, stigmatisation and rejection. The participants revealed how important it was for staff to pitch their interventions right for them at the time.

The study led to suggestions that occupational therapists refine their artistry in order to hone their interventions to suit the individual, follow guidance on developing therapeutic relationships and recovery-focused capabilities, enhance caring by getting support themselves and employ critical thinking to challenge organisational barriers and their profession's rhetoric.
A Review of Non-Traditional Occupational Therapy Practice Placement Education: A Focus on Role-Emerging and Project Placements
Authors: Overton Amber , Clark Michele , Thomas Yvonne
Published: April 2015

Practice placement education has been recognised as an integral and critical component of the training of occupational therapy students. Although there is an extensive body of literature on clinical education and traditional practice placement education models, there has been limited research on alternative placements.

This paper reviews the literature on various practice placement education models and presents a contemporary view on how it is currently delivered. The literature is examined with a particular focus on the increasing range of practice placement education opportunities, such as project and role-emerging placements. The drivers for non-traditional practice placement education include shortages of traditional placement options, health reform and changing work practices, potential for role development and influence on practice choice. The benefits and challenges of non-traditional practice placement education are discussed, including supervision issues, student evaluation, professional and personal development and the opportunity to practise clinical skills.

Further research is recommended to investigate occupational therapy graduates' perceptions of role-emerging and project placements in order to identify the benefits or otherwise of these placements and to contribute to the limited body of knowledge of emerging education opportunities.
The Role of Work in Recovery
Authors: Blank Alison , Hayward Mark
Published: April 2015

The vocational rehabilitation agenda is gaining prominence within United Kingdom health care policy, with occupational therapists poised to play a major role in the delivery of vocational services. The evidence base for supported employment has been widely accepted, although this is poorly implemented within the United Kingdom. This opinion piece considers some of the recent literature and social policy around work, occupation and recovery. It suggests that there is a need to consider supported employment interventions under the broader approach of recovery-oriented practice, alongside a process of enabling people with mental health problems to engage in personally meaningful occupations.
Home and Clinical Assessments of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living: What Could Explain the Difference between Settings in Frail Older Adults, If Any?
Authors: Provencher Véronique , Demers Louise , Gélinas Isabelle
Published: April 2015

Background:

Older patients are usually assessed by occupational therapists in hospital before going home. However, for many frail older adults, this assessment in an unfamiliar environment might not be as representative of their functional abilities as an assessment at home. The aim of this literature review was to determine if differences exist between home and clinical instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) assessments of frail older adults and identify factors that might explain those differences, if any.

Method:

The sources of the review data were Medline, CINAHL, AMED, PsycINFO, Embase and Current Content from 1988 to 2008. As few relevant studies concerning frail people were found, the search was extended to mixed-age and older adult populations. Ten articles were retained.

Main findings:

The results suggest differences in IADL assessment between settings for older adults without dementia. Some factors, such as familiarity with the environment and coping skills, might explain those differences. Based on this review, similar results might be expected with frail older people.

Implications for practice:

Given the dearth of literature on this topic, further research is needed to compare home and clinical assessments and measure relevant factors in a frail population. Helping occupational therapists to identify frail patients, who may show different abilities in unfamiliar settings, could mean more appropriate services after discharge from hospital.
Living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Children's Experiences of Participating in Home Exercise Programmes
Authors: De Monte Rachel , Rodger Sylvia , Jones Fiona , Broderick Sarah
Published: April 2015

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is used to describe the different subgroups of arthritis in children. JIA is the most common chronic rheumatic condition in children. The long-term consequences are not limited to physical disabilities but also have an impact on the child's social, emotional and cognitive development. Home exercise programmes are a major part of the complex treatment regimen for JIA. Research to date is limited in providing insights into children's perspectives about JIA.

This paper describes a qualitative study undertaken to identify children's perceptions about their participation in home exercise programmes. Using semi-structured interviews, the perspectives of 13 children (aged 8–16 years) about their experiences of living with JIA and specifically about participating in therapist-prescribed exercise programmes were investigated.

Two major themes highlighted the pervasive impact of JIA on the children's lives. First, the children described living with JIA and associated feelings of ‘being different’. Secondly, they discussed their understanding of home exercise programmes and the barriers and facilitators to participation. Key barriers were having better things to do, time required, laziness, boredom, forgetfulness and pain. Facilitators included the incorporation of exercises into everyday routines, making them fun and having rewards. Clinical implications and avenues for future research are also outlined.
Pain, Ageing and Dementia: The Crisis is Looming, but are We Ready?
Authors: Brown Cary
Published: April 2015

Pain in older people, and particularly for those people with dementia, is an underrecognised and undertreated problem of growing magnitude. Occupational therapists, although well positioned with a range of skills and resources to help older people with pain and their caregivers, must first become educated about the issues of pain assessment and management for this unique population.

Despite the fact that pain is a pervasive symptom of many occupational therapy clients, the occupational therapy educational curricula and professional literature fail to alert therapists to the urgent need for research and guideline development in this rapidly expanding practice area.
Use of a Tailor-Made Feeding Device to Improve the Self-Feeding Skills of a Woman with Congenital Upper Limb Deficiency
Authors: Louie Stephanie W S , Lai Frank H Y , Poon Carey M Y , Wong Simon K M
Published: April 2015

This case report illustrates a feeding device prescription process for a Chinese woman with congenital upper limb deficiency, using the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model. Positive experience was identified through a semi-structured interview after the participant had used the tailor-made feeding device. This report supports the HAAT model application and the importance of the sociocultural contexts in the assistive device prescription process.
Perception of Community Functioning in Young Adults with Recent-Onset Psychosis: Implications for Practice
Authors: Roy Laurence , Rousseau Jacqueline , Fortier Pierre , Mottard Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2015

Introduction:

Early and intensive rehabilitation for individuals living with first-episode psychosis (FEP) is a key issue for occupational therapists working in mental health settings.

Purpose:

The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore the perception of outpatients in a youth psychosis clinic in Montreal regarding their community functioning.

Method:

Nineteen young adults with FEP were interviewed, using a set of questions developed on the basis of a person-environment relationship theoretical model. The steps of data analysis included the transcription and coding of data, data reduction, the aggregation of themes and visual representation.

Findings:

The participants experienced more handicap-creating situations than competence situations. The themes included a diminished quality of relationship with parents, social isolation and difficulties in work and academic performance, as well as poor access to education. The perception of the participants on each of these themes is elaborated.

Practice implications:

Specific intervention targets for young adults with FEP should include issues such as the management of energy level, communication and social skills training, residential stability, academic and work rehabilitation and attention to physical features of the home, school and work environments.
Training Adult Spastics in Office Accounting and Calculating Machine Operation
Authors: Jackson A. Sumner
Published: April 2015

This article endeavours to give the background to the Stockport Experiment which has proved so successful. The Stockport Group is now anxious to open a residential Work Training Centre in office machine operation and office training and routine, for twenty-five adult spastics.
Work with Adolescent In-patients — A Realistic Approach
Authors: Leeming Dorothy
Published: April 2015

Readers are reminded of a former account of the work done in the Occupational Therapy Unit at Bethlem Royal Hospital: “Occupational Therapy with Adolescents Undergoing In-Patient Psychiatric Treatment,” by Christine J. Addison, formerly Assistant Occupational Therapist, Bethlem Royal and the Maudsley Hospitals. This article was published in the November 1957 issue of the Journal.
Occupational Therapy: As a Possible Career
Authors: King D. J.
Published: April 2015

Many of us are asked by young people, who might want to become O.T. students, what the job is about and how to become qualified. It is not always easy to answer that question comprehensively and briefly and what follows is intended to help anyone facing that situation.
The Contribution of Occupational Therapists in the Intermediate Treatment of Young People
Authors: Wheble Jane E.
Published: April 2015

This article describes the voluntary activities of two community based O. Ts. (one with experience in adult psychiatry and the other with post-graduate training in child and family psychiatry) in the intermediate treatment of young people. Like their Social Work colleagues the work done in this area is in addition to their normal professional duties. One cannot but admire those who give more than they take. Editor.
Advisers to Disabled—Job Analysis
Authors: Milne J. , Matthews P.
Published: April 2015

The role of the O. T. in Social Service Departments is not always fully understood. In Cambridgeshire all the O. Ts. decided to change our title to “Advisers to the Disabled” as we felt this term more appropriate to the depth and diversity of our role.

Having requested a change oftitle we discovered that the confusion as to our role lay not only in the minds ofthe clients but also in the minds of our managers. In order to define our role and to assist in salary negotiations the following job analysis was drawn up.
The Technique of Femoral Cast Bracing as Applied by Occupational Therapists in Nottingham
Authors: Bish Jenifer M. , Drever Catherine , Hughes Angus W.
Published: April 2015

Over the last few years different hospitals have developed their own methods for the bracing of femoral fractures. This paper aims to describe the techniques evolved in Nottingham over past 21;2 years, and the materials used in the application of these femoral cast braces.
Teaching
Authors: Watt Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

This report is a personal view of teaching Occupational Therapy Students in the clinical setting. I will describe a course which was organised for my staff, the reasons why it was thought necessary, the results and impressions in the months which followed.
Making a Plastazote Helmet—Its Use and Mini Case History to Outline Both
Authors: Patterson P. M.
Published: April 2015

This article describes the author's method of making a plastazote helmet for head protection. She outlines its necessity and use in a programme for a severely mentally handicapped child with self-injurious behaviour.
The Art of the Possible …
Authors: Flanigan Kathleen
Published: April 2015

As an optional part of her training a recently qualified American Occupational Therapist undertook a placement in terminal care at St. Luke's Nursing Home in Sheffield. The author provides an objective account of this experience which complements an article by Mrs. Ann Holland published in December 1981.
Help in the Home
Authors: MacKenzie Loreen , Aitken Cairns
Published: April 2015

In spite of the economic situation, current government policy is to increase both the quality and quantity of assistance available for the disabled person. However, there is evidence1 of confusion in the knowledge, development, prescription and use of such services.

The aim of this project was to ascertain facts on the needs and knowledge of people with mobility problems — regarding aids, appliances, equipment, allowances and services available for the disabled person. This account reports the information obtained relating to help in the home.
Administrative Competencies in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Gill Thelma
Published: April 2015

This paper focuses on the dilemma faced by Ocupational Therapists who are in administrative positions without having had adequate training in this area. This issue is discussed through the presentation of a literature review, and the results of a pilot study that was conducted with directors of Occupational Therapy departments in London, Ontario, Canada. The author concludes that the hypothesis that these directors have not received sufficient training, in the area of administration, to practice their roles comfortably, is supported.
Technology and the Profession
Authors: Gillott Hilary , Marsden John C.
Published: April 2015

This article attempts to discusss possible uses by occupational therapists of some of the advances made in modern technology.
Flexible Arm Gaiter for the Prevention of Self-Mutilating Behaviour in Mental Handicap
Authors: Jacobs E. D.
Published: April 2015

This article describes the development and use of a flexible elbow gaiter in the treatment of a mentally handicapped girl with self-mutilating behaviour with the aim of increasing self-help and social skills.
Rationing Resources
Authors: Scrivens Ellie
Published: April 2015

In 1979 a survey of a limited sample of local authority O.T.s was conducted to investigate the existence of any problems in resource allocation that they might experience. The results revealed that pressures of work and budget restrictions prevented them from giving the best care to their clients and in some cases clients had to be denied help. There were a great many variations in the organisation and management of O.T.s but in very few cases did O.T.s have any help in deciding how to allocate resources. Professional relationships, particularly with social workers were strained and O.T.s were unhappy with their professional status within departments. Isolation and lack of professional support can lead to a decrease in job satisfaction which in turn can lead to a decrease in the quality of work provided and may even lead to a desire to change employment. At a time when pressures on O.T.s in the community are increasing because of resource constraints, it is necessary to be aware of the problems they face and consider ways in which these may be lessened.
Internal Assessment with External Moderation of Courses in the Therapeutic Professions
Authors: Heylings John
Published: April 2015

This article addresses the problems of changing from a national examination system to one of internal assessment with external moderation. Emphasis is placed on the need for clear documentation, including course structure and assessment procedures, and also on the need for teaching staff to appreciate their changing role as assessors as well as teachers. A team approach is seen as an essential ingredient and it is suggested that the external moderators should be regarded as part of this team. The prime objective of the team is seen as the need to train the best possible professional, suitably qualified to receive a licence to practise. The views expressed are the result of years of experience, which started with the personal experience of making the change amd continued with helping other health professionals make this transition.
Measuring Disability by Means of ADL Indices
Authors: Selman Mirline , Barnitt Rosemary
Published: April 2015

The value of ADL (activities of daily living) indices for measuring disability and in planning effective treatment and evaluation has gained in recognition in recent years. The profusion of indices presents the therapist with a wealth of choice, but many are often poorly designed with little regard for reliability and validity. This article therefore identifies some of the qualities of a well designed index with reference to the terminology often associated with its design. A short review of four well known indices and two assessment schedules that have been used in social services' old people's homes has also been included.
Safe Driving for Hemiparetics
Authors: Everard Catherine
Published: April 2015

This article attempts to clarify the main physical and psychological factors which need to be considered when advising a person recovering from a CVA about his readiness to return to driving. Recognising the importance of this skill to the leading of a full and active life, the article stresses the need for a comprehensive series of tests on the patient. Once these have been successfully completed, appropriate modifications to the vehicle can be made and these are also detailed. The article acknowledges the change of attitude to disabled drivers by the community and mentions measures taken with regard to parking and access.
Forensic Psychiatry and Occupational Therapy
Authors: Lloyd Chris
Published: April 2015

At the Alberta Hospital Edmonton, one ward employs social learning as the major mode of treatment of character disorders. To meet the demands of working in a therapeutic community all disciplines have had to extend their traditional roles. Occupational therapy role extension has been in the area of assessment and goal planning. This article discusses the occupational therapist's involvement in the forensic psychiatric unit.
Occupational Therapy for Children with Perceptual Motor Disorders: A Literature Review
Authors: Hong Chia Swee
Published: April 2015

The project attempted to look at the approach used by occupational therapists in Britain for children with perceptual motor disorders. It consisted of a review of literature published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy from 1970–81. The results suggested that occupational therapists used a variety of assessments and treatment methods with a slant towards sensory and perceptual motor approaches.
A Brief Encounter with Technology
Authors: Jones Gail , Anderson Marshal B
Published: April 2015

A report of a week's experience exploring a computer's potential use in developing problem-solving skills.
Developmental Play Therapy: An Assessment and Therapeutic Technique in Child Psychiatry
Authors: Jeffrey Lily I H
Published: April 2015

The author presents a model for therapy using various developmental theories to explain the complex play patterns which the child presents in play therapy sessions. She outlines how a knowledge of these theories, in relation to children's play in therapy, provides the therapist with a technique, which initially gives a baseline of the child's emotional state and subsequently, as therapy proceeds, provides a measure of progress. She illustrates how relationship therapy and nondirective play, in the context of the theories, provide the therapeutic experience which the child needs. The case illustrating this paper is entirely fictitious, using only actual isolated incidents from the author's recordings of sessions with many children. These incidents have been edited to disguise all identifying features of the children concerned.
A Multidisciplinary Day Unit for the Treatment of Substance Abuse
Authors: Stevens Sally
Published: April 2015

The present base of the Leeds Addiction Unit is an old Victorian house which has been converted into the unit's offices and has day-patient facilities for 20 patients per day. The unit forms a major part of what is intended to be an integrated response to addiction problems in the area. Broadly speaking, the unit has an interest in clinical work, education and support of primary workers, and research. It is staffed by people with various professional backgrounds who work together as a multidisciplinary team.
Introducing the Concept of Occupational Therapy to Patients in an Acute Psychiatric Unit
Authors: Burton Lin
Published: April 2015

This project was set up to clarify concepts of and attitudes towards occupational therapy held by Faringdon Wing patients. It proposed to monitor changes in the above, produced by manipulating the introduction procedure. Three groups of approximately 25 patients were surveyed at 6-monthly intervals, between which the introduction procedure was changed. A questionnaire was compiled and used to investigate patients' opinions about occupational therapy, their reasons for attendance, their choice of activity and the introduction procedure. It was found that most patients felt occupational therapy was helpful but did not attend primarily for the reasons which occupational therapists thought important. The study has highlighted the need for further research into introductory procedures, attitudes of patients towards occupational therapy and education of other disciplines about occupational therapy.
Let Occupational Therapy Become Occupational Education!
Authors: Sutcliffe Pip
Published: April 2015

The author discusses the basic philosophy behind occupational therapy and proposes that this approach is pertinent to all education.
The Effectiveness of Cervical Orthoses: The Patient's Viewpoint
Authors: Dudgeon Philippa
Published: April 2015

During a 6-month period, 50 cervical orthoses were made and fitted by one occupational therapist; all the patients were followed up regularly. A postal questionnaire was sent, asking for views on the initial problem, type of cervical orthosis and fastening, frequency of wearing, ease of application, and value of information originally given to patients. Comparisons were made between the patients' views and facts recorded in the medical notes. The results are presented in detail, and the implications discussed.
Patterns of Disability in Two Different Types of Day Hospital for the Elderly in Clwyd
Authors: Ramaiah R Sampangi , Jones David T , Morris Eirian Wyn
Published: April 2015

The results of a study of activities of daily living (ADL) assessments in two different types of day hospital (general practitioner and consultant) for the elderly are presented. It was found that, based upon these assessments, a higher proportion of patients attending general practitioner day hospitals were less independent than their counterparts who attended a consultant day hospital. This difference was shown to be statistically significant in respect of the activities of washing (P<0.001) and dressing (P<0.01). It is concluded that ADL assessments are a useful way of indicating levels of independence in day hospitals for the elderly, and that the finding of differences in patient dependency between these two types of day hospital has important implications for the planning of occupational therapy services within district health authorities.
Purley Day Hospital: An Appraisal with Special Reference to Institutionalized Behaviour and Dependence
Authors: Alsop Auldeen E
Published: April 2015

This article looks at the institutionalized and dependent patient in a day hospital setting. It suggests characteristics which may be observed in such patients and ways in which the environment and routine may have contributed to encouraging set patterns of behaviour with detrimental effect. The programme used at Purley Day Hospital shows how the individual needs of patients are taken into consideration to encourage self-confidence and independence.
Reality Orientation with Psychogeriatric Patients: An Initial Two-Month Programme
Authors: Cunliffe Penny
Published: April 2015

This article describes a first series of classroom-type reality orientation, set up on a background of 24-hour reality orientation, to assess this treatment technique and to discover organizational problems. It discusses the selection and grouping of patients, the monitoring of progress, and the structure and content of the sessions. The initial, midway, and final assessment scores are shown for each of the three groups of patients. The programme was considered to have been of value to the patients as part of treatment and to staff in highlighting the problems and strengths of the groups. Some general recommendations for such programmes are made.
Occupational Therapy and Day Care for the Terminally III
Authors: Holland A E
Published: April 2015

Hospice care for the terminally ill has in recent years become an interesting and important part of our medical system. The author is an occupational therapist who has been working in a hospice for 13 years. In this article she details the working of the day unit within such a hospice and refers particularly to the contribution that the occupational therapist can make in this setting.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry — Survey 1984
Authors: Jeffrey Lily I H , Lyne Sarah C , Redfern Fiona
Published: April 2015

This paper summarizes the results of a survey undertaken during 1984 to determine the extent of occupational therapy services in relation to this specialized field of the profession. The survey focused on the number of units and established posts, postregistration training, special interest groups and research.
Good Vibrations
Authors: Sandall Sue
Published: April 2015

This article is a personal account of experience in the use of therapeutic vibration techniques with mentally and physically handicapped people. The equipment is described and case studies provided. The author has found the techniques to be of practical use for many people with a combination of problems.
West Midlands Refresher Course for Occupational Therapists 1983
Authors: Holmes Sandra , Rogerson Marion
Published: April 2015

This report shows how a positive approach was employed to the need to draw nonpractising occupational therapists back into the profession. A survey was undertaken to determine the potential response to a refresher course, as well as the number of vacancies. The content and other aspects of the course are discussed, and the results of an evaluation questionnaire provided. The report concludes that the refresher course has highlighted the support districts can give to those wishing to return to work.
Brittle Bones: A Handicap with Special Occupational Therapy Needs
Authors: Alston Jean
Published: April 2015

Children with brittle bones can be educated in ordinary or special schools. In either case, occupational therapy techniques can be helpful for their general management, mobility and educational progress. In this article, areas in which the occupational therapist can help are identified and ways in which an interdisciplinary approach might improve the educational progress of the children are considered. The author draws particular attention to the children's needs for successful handwriting.
The Value of Combined Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy in Paediatrics
Authors: Sené Anne , Fisher Susan
Published: April 2015

This article is based on the areas of overlap identified by an occupational therapist and a speech therapist in their treatment of preschool children with developmental problems. The advantages of combined sessions are discussed and a case history provided. The authors conclude that their integrated approach has increased their awareness of the language, physical and emotional needs of the children they treat.
Evaluation and Forensic Psychiatric Occupational Therapy
Authors: Lloyd Chris
Published: April 2015

The process of evaluation/treatment provides the basis for analysing the problem, formulating objectives to reduce deficits and outlining a treatment plan to develop specific skills. The way in which the process of evaluation is currently being used to provide an effective occupational therapy programme in a forensic psychiatric setting is described.
Daily Activities following Hip Replacement: A Handout
Authors: Fairburn Susan M
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a handout given to patients following total hip replacement. It is intended to supplement the information provided by members of the rehabilitation team. One problem which may arise from the use of handouts is that the information and instructions given may differ in some way from that provided by members of staff. However, potential misunderstandings can be avoided if the communication between staff members is good, and if it is made clear to the patient that the handout presents general guidelines which may be overruled in individual cases.
Behaviour Modification with Disturbed Adolescents: The Role of the Occupational Therapist
Authors: Schell Donna , Giles Gordon Muir
Published: April 2015

This paper reports on the work of the occupational therapist in a token economy system. The unit described specializes in the treatment of behaviourally disordered adolescents who have a mild to moderate degree of mental impairment and who have presented intractable management problems elsewhere. The paper outlines the criteria for patient referral and describes the ward setting and the token economy system. Occupational therapy is examined under the headings of assessment, functional and educational skills, work and recreation, and specific treatment options are outlined. Occupational therapy is also discussed in relation to other treatments and disciplines, and particular attention is paid to the problems of resettlement.
Rehabilitation Survey of Long-Stay Patients at Park Prewett Hospital, Basingstoke, 1984: Final Report
Authors: Bartlett Susan , Gleeson Mary , Young Mary
Published: April 2015

A survey of long-stay psychiatric patients was carried out at Park Prewett Hospital during 1982–84. The survey included 181 items of observed functional behaviour for the purpose of recommending both residential accommodation and rehabilitation. An account of the survey was published in this journal in May 1985. This is the final report of that survey and includes data presented by age and sex relative to the recommendations made as a result of the survey.
Training for Helpers: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Mead Judy , Crawford Mary , Wells Janet
Published: April 2015

Helpers, whose work is greatly valued, have received fairly extensive training in South West Thames Regional Health Authority for a number of years. Commitment to a team approach to the health care of any individual and to the conservation of limited training resources was fundamental to the development of a 15-day long multidisciplinary helpers' course.
The Role of the Occupational Therapist in Child Psychiatry: A Case Illustration
Authors: Davis Susan
Published: April 2015

The role of occupational therapists throughout the profession is so widely varied that it is often difficult for the therapists in one sphere to be completely aware of how colleagues in other areas function. This case presentation is an illustration of how occupational therapy in child psychiatry was used to help alleviate a child's distress.
Psychosocial Adjustment of Adult Burns Patients: Is it More Difficult for People with Visible Scars?
Authors: Hill Caroline
Published: April 2015

The aim of the literature review was to determine whether the visibility of scarring affects the psychosocial adaptation of adult patients with severe burn injuries. It was found that a large majority of people manage to adjust very well and can return to their previous way of life; and that this adjustment is dependent more on social support and the personality of the individual than on the severity or visibility of physical deformities.
Multidisciplinary Organization of Treatment for Brain Damaged Patients
Authors: Howard P A , Stephens S , Tyerman R
Published: April 2015

The Joint Services Medical Rehabilitation Unit at RAF, Chessington, has developed a rehabilitation programme for brain damaged patients. It is a mixture of individual and group treatment, and is planned and carried out by a multidisciplinary team of therapists in conjunction with the resident specialist medical officer.