bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Benefits of the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 for Children and Adolescents With Disabilities
Authors: Kalscheur Jean A. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (Public Law 101–336) is a civil rights law intended to bring men, women, and children with disabilities into the mainstream of American life. This paper discusses the relation of the law to pediatric occupational therapy practice. The spirit of the ADA is highly compatible with occupational therapy’s philosophical perspective. Occupational therapy personnel value functional independence, which requires an interactive relation between the environment and the child. Current pediatric practice models focus on deficit reduction and give limited attention to the environment, even though physical, social, and temporal environments contribute to disability, as do performance component deficits. An environment-centered model is suggested as a pediatric service provision approach compatible with the philosophical background of the ADA. This model emphasizes education and consultation to businesses and individuals for the purpose of altering environments to be accessible and accommodating to children and adolescents with disabilities. Three examples of environment-centered services are presented: (a) an evaluation of environments and reasonable accommodation recommendations for a teenager with a physical disability, (b) the mother of a child with cerebral palsy, and (c) the parents and program director of a community recreation program.
The Relationship Between Elbow Position and Grip Strength
Authors: Kuzala Elizabeth Ann , Vargo Michael Charles 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Forty-six graduate students participated in a study to investigate the effect of elbow position on grip-strength measurements. Sixteen males and 30 females, aged 21 to 46 years, participated in the study. Data collection procedures followed standardized grip-strength testing guidelines established by the American Society of Hand Therapists, with the exception of elbow position. Grip-strength measurements were taken with the elbow positioned at 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135° of flexion. The results showed a significantly stronger grip-strength measurement at 0° of flexion and the weakest grip-strength measurement at 135° of flexion. This study supports the use of a standardized method for hand strength testing. The knowledge that grip-strength measurement is highest when the elbow is fully extended could affect treatment planning.
Socialization Groups: Using The Book of Questions as a Catalyst for Interaction
Authors: Wade Jay C. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This article describes the use of The Book of Questions (Stock, 1987) as a tool for assessment and as a catalyst for social interaction in an acute short-term inpatient psychiatric unit. Examples of questions and how they can be used to provide information for the evaluation of personality style and social and interpersonal skills are provided. Group objectives, membership criteria and format, and leadership techniques are discussed. Analysis of the group activity and patients’ responses to the group indicates that a group structured around The Book of Questions facilitates social interaction and is easily transferable to social activities outside of the structured therapeutic group setting and hospital environment.
Why Students Choose Occupational Therapy as a Career
Authors: Rozier Carolyn K. , Gilkeson Grace E. , Hamilton Basil L. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
To recruit students to occupational therapy, we need to know what prospective students seek in careers. A survey consisting of an attitude inventory was sent to 403 current occupational therapy students with a response rate of 54%. Earlier research identified that students had primarily altruistic goals in selecting occupational therapy as a profession, and this study continued to find that students wanted to help others; however, this was not a predictor of their favoring the profession. A factor analysis of the inventory revealed that students chose occupational therapy as a career because they liked the salaries, nationwide job availability, regular hours, and prestige that is associated with the profession. Students were more positive about the profession if they had experience working in occupational therapy departments, and 40% reported that no specific persons had influenced their career decision.
“Doing Battle”: A Metaphorical Analysis of Diabetes Mellitus Among Navajo People
Authors: Huttlinger Kathleen , Krefting Laura , Drevdahl Denise , Tree Philip , Baca Elaine , Benally Anita 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Effective communication with patients and their family members forms the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. This is particularly important when the occupational therapist, other health professionals, and the patient are from different cultural backgrounds. This paper describes one aspect of the findings of a ethnographic study of chronic diabetes among the Navajo people (referred to here as Dine’). It focuses on the dominant metaphorical images that were used by the informants to describe their illness experiences. The data suggest that diabetes can be considered a metaphor for larger social changes in the life-style and traditions (e.g., away from sheepherding as a means of basic subsistence to obtaining urban-centered employment) of native Americans and their effects on the Dine’. Implications of our findings include the importance of metaphorical communication for perceptions of compliance, powerlessness, and patient and therapist satisfaction with the therapeutic relationship.
Culturally Competent Occupational Therapy in a Diversely Populated Mental Health Setting
Authors: Dillard Maria , Andonian Lynne , Flores Olivia , Lai Lisa , MacRae Anne , Shakir Muhjah 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Cultural sensitivity is a crucial component of health care provision, particularly in psychiatric settings. As society becomes more multicultural, it is essential for occupational therapists to continue to develop cultural competence, which is defined in this paper as an awareness of, sensitivity to, and knowledge of the meaning of culture. At San Francisco General Hospital, an innovative multicultural model consisting of special focus programs is used. The key to the success of such programs is a culturally competent professional staff.
Dementia Management: An Occupational Therapy Home-Based Intervention for Caregivers
Authors: Corcoran Mary A. , Gitlin Laura N. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This paper describes an occupational therapy intervention designed for family caregivers of persons with dementia. The intervention, based on the framework of a competence-environmental press model and the principle of collaboration, was implemented during 5 home visits. Each visit was designed to build caregiving skills through collaboration in identifying problem areas, developing and implementing environmental strategies, and modifying management approaches. A case vignette illustrates the therapeutic process and outcomes. The theoretical rationale and structure of the intervention and innovative documentation for evaluation of the theoretic process are also presented.
Level I Fieldwork: Creating a Positive Experience
Authors: Swinehart Susan , Meyers Susan K. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Qualitative research methodology was used to explore the purpose of level I fieldwork among occupational therapy students, clinical educators, and faculty respondents at one academic program. Differences in purposes among the three groups of respondents created different fieldwork expectations and outcomes. These differences underlined the importance of communication among students, clinical supervisors, and faculty in planning fieldwork to meet the needs of all three groups. Interpersonal skills, rather than academic skills, emerged as most important to student success in clinical education. Other factors that promote optimal level I fieldwork experience are understanding the purpose, level of commitment, clarity of expectations, timing, structure, and evaluation of the experience.
Comparison of Computer Interface Devices for Persons With Severe Physical Disabilities
Authors: Lau Cynthia , O’Leary Stephanie 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This research employed a descriptive case study design to compare subjects’ performance using three computer input devices: the Tongue Touch Keypad, the HeadMaster, and the mouthstick. The sample consisted of four students with severe physical disabilities enrolled in an adaptive computer class at a community college. Components of performance examined were input speed, accuracy, and level of perceived exertion. Subjects’ acceptance of each of the interface devices was also examined. Results showed input speed to be the fastest with the mouthstick, followed by the HeadMaster and then the Tongue Touch Keypad. Accuracy of input did not vary significantly. Three subjects rated the Tongue Touch Keypad as requiring the lowest rate of perceived exertion, followed by the HeadMaster and then the mouthstick. Overall performance did not necessarily affect subjects’ acceptability ratings of the devices. Information from this study will assist therapists in evaluating the effectiveness and desirability of computer interface devices for patients.
Comparison of Assistive Device Use and Needs of Home-Based Older Persons With Different Impairments
Authors: Mann William C. , Hurren Dianne , Tomita Machiko 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This paper examined assistive device use by noninstitutionalized older persons with visual, cognitive, and physical impairments. One hundred fifty seven persons over 60 years of age (M = 75.5 years) were interviewed in their homes for the University at Buffalo Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center Consumer Assessments Study. Subjects were assigned to one of seven groups according to types of impairment: minimal, physical, visual, visual and physical, cognitive, cognitive and physical, and cognitive and visual. Group assignments were based on scores on the Sickness Impact Profile (physical), Older Americans Resources and Services Program Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (vision), and Mini Mental State Exam (cognitive). Overall, subjects owned a mean of 13.7 devices, used 10.8 devices (79% of the devices they own), and were satisfied with 9.8 devices (72% of the devices they own). There were significant differences among the impairment groups in numbers of devices owned and used, and in satisfaction with devices. Subjects expressed the need for more devices, especially devices for increasing mobility and assisting with balance. Results suggest a stronger role for occupational therapists in the assessment of assistive device needs of older persons, and in recommending devices and training persons in their use.
Addressing Assistive Technology Needs in Special Education
Authors: Shuster Nancy E. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Assistive technology is critical to maximize the functional skills of the person with a physical disability at home, work, and school. As assistive devices become increasingly complex and expensive and more options are available, the need for an assistive technology specialist is enhanced. Recent regulations and advances in technology are affecting the type, quality, and comprehensiveness of assistive technology service provision and need for assistive technology specialists. The occupational therapist’s role as an assistive technology specialist is illustrated in an example of an assistive technology program within a special education setting.
Self-Evaluation and Self-Concept of Adolescents With Physical Disabilities
Authors: King Gillian A. , Shultz Izabela Z. , Steel Kathleen , Gilpin Michelle , Cathers Tamzin 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Fifty-three adolescents aged 14 to 18 years with diagnoses of cerebral palsy (n = 27), cleft lip or palate or both (n = 17), or spina bifida (n = 9) took part in this study examining their self-esteem, self-concept, self-acceptance, social self-efficacy, and values, as measured by standardized instruments. Comparisons were made separately for males and females with norms developed for adolescents without disabilities. Significant differences were found only on several aspects of self-concept: females with physical disabilities were lower in perceived social acceptance, athletic competence, and romantic appeal than the normative sample, and males with physical disabilities were lower in perceived scholastic competence, athletic competence, and romantic appeal. In addition, social self-efficacy was found to be a significant predictor of both independence and persistence in adolescents with disabilities, who were significantly less independent and persistent than were normative samples. The discussion focuses on the usefulness of the findings regarding social self-efficacy and the implications of the findings for occupational therapists.
A Model to Promote Activity Competence in Elders
Authors: Levine Ruth E. , Gitlin Laura N. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This paper describes an occupational therapy home-based intervention in which purposeful activities were used to promote adaptation and competence in older adults with chronic disabilities. Seven home care therapists visited 17 randomly selected, community-living elders who were chronically disabled and who volunteered to participate in the program. The number of visits ranged from 3 to 10 and occurred over a 3-month period according to clients’ needs and wishes. Therapists enhanced their ability to enter the client’s social and cultural system by using participant-observation techniques and collaboratively identified activities. Therapists documented each home visit with a structured fieldnote form. An analysis of 112 fieldnotes indicated that therapists were able to understand a client’s needs; this understanding resulted in small qualitative gains in areas identified as important by the client. Reilly’s concept of an activity continuum was a useful framework from which to work with this population. The implications for program development, treatment outcomes, and accountability with this approach promote improved future treatment planning with the elderly with chronic disability.
Generalization of Occupational Therapy Effects in Psychiatric Rehabilitation
Authors: Hayes Robyn L. , Halford W. Kim 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Psychoeducation procedures dominate the treatment used by occupational therapists in psychiatric rehabilitation. The underlying assumption of skills training is that the skills taught generalize, that is, they persist beyond the treatment session and are used by the client in the community. This paper surveys occupational therapy literature to evaluate the generalization of skills taught to adult psychiatric clients by occupational therapists. Of the 77 studies reviewed, only 13 (17%) mentioned anything related to generalization. Seven of these articles statistically evaluated the outcome of skills training, but only four specifically assessed generalization of therapy. It is concluded that occupational therapists in psychiatry predominantly do not assess generalization of therapy. Discussion focuses on how four classes of generalization strategies (modifying the community environment, modifying the therapy environment, altering the style of therapy, and promoting client involvement) can enhance the effectiveness of occupational therapists in psychiatry.
Occupation and the Relevance of Primatology to Occupational Therapy
Authors: Wood Wendy 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
The adaptive functions of occupation during the phylogenetic history of the human species and the ontogenetic development of individual primates are examined through a review of relevant research of wild and captive nonhuman primates. This review suggests that the effectiveness of occupation as a therapeutic medium throughout life span development is fundamentally lied to humankind’s phylogenetic history. It is accordingly argued that there is considerable justification to maintain occupational therapy’s historical commitment to therapeutic occupation as the profession’s primary treatment modality. To support this commitment, questions to guide practice and research are identified that emanate from the primate literature and that are highly germane to the therapeutic process in occupational therapy. These questions address: (a) the relationship between the press of the various environments in which occupational therapists practice and subsequent opportunities availed to patients for engagement in occupation: (b) the relationship between the extent to which patients are or are not empowered to exert real control over their use of time their eventual development of disabling conditions; and (c) the therapeutic efficacy of occupation as compared with other treatment approaches that are not comparably holistic.
The Influence of an Animal on Social Interactions of Nursing Home Residents in a Group Setting
Authors: Fick Katharine M. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This study was conducted to determine the effect of the presence and absence of a dog on the frequency and types of social interactions among nursing home residents during a socialization group. Point sampling was used to evaluate the behaviors of 36 male nursing home residents at a Veterans Administration Medical Center under two conditions, Dog Present and Dog Absent. A significant difference in verbal interactions among residents occurred with the dog present, F(1,69) = 4.92, p &lt; .05. These findings are consistent with existing literature, thus providing further evidence of the value of Animal Assisted Therapy programs as an effective medium for increasing socialization among residents in long-term care facilities. Because an increase in social interactions can improve the social climate of an institution and occupational therapists frequently incorporate group process into their treatment, the therapeutic use of animals can become a valuable adjunct to reaching treatment goals.
Family Involvement in Practice: Issues and Attitudes
Authors: Humphry Ruth , González Sharon , Taylor Eve 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
The family occupies an important role in the lives of persons with a physical, developmental, or mental disability; however, the extent and manner in which occupational therapists work with families is not known. A questionnaire concerning family–therapist involvement was sent to occupational therapists. Responses of 340 occupational therapists with a primary practice area of physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, or mental health were compared. Results indicated that the amount of contact with families of clients, reasons for family–therapist interactions, and attitudes about the family’s abilities and involvement were affected by the respondent’s area of practice. Respondents in all three practice areas identified scheduling difficulties as the biggest issue affecting their involvement with families of their clients. Implications discussed include the need to obtain an understanding of families’ desired level of involvement and the importance of continuing education opportunities for occupational therapists in changing attitudes about working with families. This study also suggests that the role of occupational therapists with families in mental health settings needs to be better articulated and shared with professional peers.
Graded Activity: Legacy of the Sanatorium
Authors: Creighton Cynthia 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Occupational therapists in all areas or practice grade therapeutic activities to help patients progress toward their goals. It is proposed in this paper that the concept of graded activity originated in German tuberculosis sanatoria in the late 1800’s, when patients were required to walk on graded (sloped) land for exercise. British physician Marcus Paterson included work, as well as walking, in his graduated exercise program for tuberculosis patients and was honored for this innovation at the founding meeting of the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy (NSPOT). George Barton, Susan Tracy, and Herbert Hall were among the NSPOT members who contributed to the development of graded activity as a principle in occupational therapy intervention. The military rehabilitation programs established during world War I provided additional impetus, and by the mid-1920s, graded activity was recognized as central to the profession.
A Comparison of Structured Sensorimotor Therapy and Child-Centered Activity in the Treatment of Preschool Children With Sensorimotor Problems
Authors: DeGangi Georgia A. , Wietlisbach Shirley , Goodin Mary , Scheiner Nancy 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This study compared the benefits of a child-centered therapy approach emphasizing child-initiated play interactions within a structured therapy environment to those of a therapist-directed, structured sensorimotor therapy approach in 12 preschool children with sensorimotor dysfunction. Each child received a pretest, 8 weeks of intervention (A or B) provided once weekly for a 1-hr session, a retest, 8 weeks of intervention (B or A) provided once weekly, and a final retest. A case study methodology was used to evaluate outcome data. Structured sensorimotor therapy was more useful than child-centered therapy in promoting gross motor skills, functional abilities (i.e., self-care), and sensory integrative functions. Child-centered therapy appeared to promote fine motor skills better. Although there were no differences in the two therapies for gains in play, attention, and behavior, variables such as temperament, attentional abilities, family stress, severity of sensorimotor delay, and whether the child had received treatment before seemed to affect which therapy was more beneficial for behavior, play, and attention. The effect of the findings on therapeutic practice is discussed.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Improves Daily Life Function
Authors: Cohen Helen 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This article reviews recent research that addresses the functional outcomes of intervention for vestibular disorders. Vestibular impairments cause disequilibrium, blurred vision, disorientation, and vertigo. These sensory disturbances and motor impairments in turn cause dysfunction in many activities of daily living and in social interactions that traditional medical treatments do not address. The motor sequelae of some vestibular disorders can be treated successfully with programs of graded exercises and activities, the functional implications of which are described herein. The functional impairments caused by other vestibular disorders, which cannot be treated with graded activities, are also described. These disorders include bilateral vestibular loss caused by connective tissue disorders or by the use of ototoxic medications, tumors of the labyrinth or vestibular nerve, and Meniere’s disease. Occupational therapy intervention for these conditions may involve providing adaptive equipment, teaching alternative strategies for performing activities of daily living, and psychological intervention for depression and anxiety.