Model of Human Occupation: Theory and Application

Abstract

The fourth edition of this book describes itself as a ‘complete and current presentation of the most widely used conceptual practice model in Occupational Therapy’, intended to be used alongside other occupational therapy models and interdisciplinary concepts. The author, professor of occupational therapy at the University of Illinois at Chicago, acknowledges the contributions of professionals around the world in creating a model aimed at transcending cultural difference and national boundaries. Human occupation is defined as the doing of work (paid and unpaid), play or activities of daily living within a temporal, physical and sociocultural context that characterizes much of human life. The focus is on everyday life rather than illness or disability. The author emphasizes the importance of an occupation-focused, client-centred, holistic and evidence-based approach in enabling people to engage in occupations that provide meaning and satisfaction and that support their physical and emotional well being. The book is broadly divided in two parts. The first part provides the theoretical framework and explores the roles of volitional thoughts and feelings, habituation, physical and mental performance capacity and the environment in shaping occupational behavior. The second part, which has been substantially revised and expanded in this edition, looks at how theory translates into practice. It describes methods and tools for the therapist to assess and engage with his clients and enable change.