Knowledge and Use of Theory among Occupational Therapists: A Canadian Survey

Abstract

Recent interest M occupational therapy theory has focussed attention on the utility of theory for clinical practice and for research. However, for many therapists, knowledge and use of theory have changed notably since their educational days, and the process of keeping up to date on theory development may be difficult. Thi s paper presents the results of a survey aimed at identifying the extent of use of theory and the level of knowledge about theory among practicing therapists in Canada. A random sample of 187 therapists from across the country was sunreyed to ascertain their knowledge of authors and ideas in the occupational therapy theory literature. Results indicate that overall knowledge level is moderate. Factors which significantly predict theory knowledge include year of graduation, training in or outside Canada, academic qualification, and self-assessment of theory knowledge. There were no significant differences in theory knowledge according to area of clinical practice.

Instructing Occupational Therapy Students in Use of Theory to Guide Practice

“…It has been well documented in the literature that occupational therapy practitioners tend to resist demands for accountability in explaining how they use theory as a guide to clinical decision-making (Cole & Tufano, 2008;Du Toit & Wilkinson, 2011;Ikiugu, 2012;Law & McColl, 1989;O'Neal et al, 2007). Unfortunately, deemphasis of theory as a guide to practice may be detrimental to the well-being of the profession (Hinojosa, 2013).…”

Choice, Knowledge, and Utilization of a Practice Theory: A National Study of Occupational Therapists Who Use the Model of Human Occupation

“…Javetz and Katz (1989) found that therapists selected models according to the perceived relevance of the model to their practice specialty areas (e.g., physical disabilities, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatrics). Law and McColl (1989) found evidence in support of the conclusion that the value therapists attached to theory, along with their knowledge of particular theories, was a major determinant of their selection and use of a theory.…”

“…Similarly, Law and McColl (1989) found that fewer therapists actually used theories (65.8%) than those who reported valuing theory (91%). These two studies suggest that therapists' attitudes are not the primary influence on whether they choose to use theory in practice.…”

“…These two studies suggest that therapists' attitudes are not the primary influence on whether they choose to use theory in practice. Law and McColl (1989) found an association between knowledge of theory and theory utilization. Crowe and Kanny (1990) and Storch and Eskow (1996) found that therapists used theories based on their educational background.…”

“…Over the last three decades this model has been developed, studied, and applied, resulting in a large literature and a wide range of resources for practice (Kielhofner, 2007). Evidence indicates MOHO is the most widely used occupationbased model internationally (Brown, Rodger, Brown, & Roever, 2005;Haglund, Ekbladh, Thorell, & Hallberg, 2000;Law & McColl, 1989;National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, 2004;Wikeby, Lundgren, & Archenholtz, 2006). Nonetheless, little is known about why and how practitioners actually choose and use this model.…”