Occupational Therapy: A Critical Overview, Part 2

Abstract

Rrt 2 of this article continues the evaluation of philosophical concepts that began In part 1. It concludes by suggesting that the foundation of the profession does not rest on the dictum 'health through occupation' but on the field related to the learning and teaching of skills, and stresses the importance and potential that this field has for the future viability of occupational therapy. In this context, the need for recognising the distinction that exists between the Inherent competence of Individuals, as closed sy&-terns, and their observable behaviour as they openly Interact with the environment Is emphasised.

Client-centred practice in occupational therapy: Critical reflections

“…Mocellin (96) claimed that the occupational therapy profession failed to subject its core assumptions to critical scrutiny because those in positions of power had invested heavily in the profession's conventional rhetoric. He also observed that "when core assumptions, which are considered essential to the underpinning of occupational therapy, are perceived by some to be under threat, considerable efforts are made to enforce professional conformity" [(12), p. 502].…”

Sacred Texts: A Sceptical Exploration of the Assumptions Underpinning Theories of Occupation

“…Critics observe that the more powerful one's beliefs and assumptions become and the greater their longevity, the greater their ability to survive contact with contesting evidence (Childs & Williams, 1997;Taylor, 1999). Moreover, Mocellin (1996) claimed that instead of subjecting its core assumptions to critical scrutiny, occupational therapy has promoted specific language and models, not solely to advance the scientific basis of the profession, but as a defensive response by those who have invested heavily in the profession's conventional rhetoric. Mocellin (1995) therefore equates these beliefs and assumptions with the dogma of a fundamentalist faith.…”

Distinguishing between Occupation, Purposeful Activity and Activity, Part 1: Review and Explanation

“…(This is not a view subscribed to by all; see Mocellin [1995Mocellin [ , 1996 for a review of this topic.) Pasquinelli (1996) continued by stating:…”