Cultural Relativism: Occupation and Independence Reconsidered

Abstract

In this article, findings from a qualitative study of a cohort of occupational therapy students in Auckland, New Zealand are presented. The study focussed on the experiences of students as they learned to work with people from different social and cultural backgrounds over a 3-year period. As well as identifying curriculum and teaching/learning processes that enhance intercultural competence development, the data that emerged from the study also highlight important issues about how occupation and independence are conceptualised across cultures. A review of the trans-disciplinary and occupational therapy literature dealing with theoretical, conceptual and educational issues relating to cross-cultural practice is followed by a presentation of narrative extracts that address the key concepts of occupation and independence. These are then discussed with reference to relevant occupational therapy literature. In conclusion, implications for future research and practice are explored focussing on a need for occupation and independence to be reconsidered as culturally relative constructions.

The myth of participation in occupational therapy: reconceptualizing a client-centred approach

“…It is during these times when it becomes critical to gain an empathic understanding of these clients and to apply a therapeutic reasoning process that incorporates advocacy and other actions to support clients who are less able to achieve independence in the traditional sense (2,8). Similarly, Whiteford and Wilcock (27) To be defined as client-centred, this relationship must be shared at a level that is appropriate for the client, in order for that relationship to function effectively enough to engender true participation during therapy and beyond (8).…”

Using the LOTCA to Measure Cultural and Sociodemographic Effects on Cognitive Skills in Two Groups of Children

“…On the basis of this recommendation and the need for occupational therapists (and other health care professionals) to expand their cultural competence and incorporate it into theory and practice (Odawara, 2005;Whiteford & Wilcock, 2000), we aimed to elaborate the role of cultural and sociodemographic parameters in children's performance by relating them for the first time to Israeli and Palestinian children's cognitive development. We conducted the investigation with the LOTCA, an assessment tool developed in Israel for use with children ³ age 6.…”

Occupational therapy and culture: a literature review

“…The relationship between culture and OT has been explored in previous studies (6,14,22,(74)(75)(76). Different perspectives on and approaches to culture are presented in these studies, given in the results here, with a broad scope and understanding of the phenomenon.…”