Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/1484
Title: | Mental health clients confirm the value of occupation in building competence and self-identity |
Authors: | Mee, J Sumsion, T Craik, C |
Issue Date: | 2004 |
Publisher: | College of Occupational Therapists |
Citation: | The British Journal of Occupational Therapy. 67 (5): 225-233 |
Abstract: | Engagement in occupation is proposed to enhance health and wellbeing. To date, few studies have demonstrated this in relation to people with mental health problems. This study aimed to evaluate occupational therapy’s beliefs in the restorative powers of occupation from the perspective of people with enduring mental health problems living in the community. Qualitative research methods were used in two mental health day service settings: a workshop, where woodwork was provided as a medium for creative therapy, and a drop-in facility. Participant observation was undertaken over 10 sessions and, during six in-depth interviews, the clients were asked about their occupational experiences and whether they had perceived any benefits from engagement in occupation. Content and inductive analysis as well as concept mapping of the data resulted in emergent themes and subthemes. Occupation was identified both as a means for building competence through the acquisition of skills, coping with challenges and achieving success and as a medium for developing self-identity through the drive to create, feelings of usefulness and engendering a sense of self. These themes help to support the need for an increase in the provision of meaningful occupation for people with enduring mental health problems. However, further research is required to develop and corroborate the findings. |
URI: | http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/1484 |
DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1177/030802260406700506 |
ISSN: | 0308-0226 |
Appears in Collections: | Community Health and Public Health Dept of Health Sciences Research Papers |
Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
---|---|---|---|---|
FullText.pdf | 167.39 kB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
Items in BURA are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.