Shanon K Phelan1. 1. Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Field of Occupational Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, 1201 Western Rd., London, ON N6G 1H1. sphelan2@uwo.ca
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Within professional and practice knowledge there are many assumptions about disability that underpin occupational therapy philosophy. PURPOSE: The objectives of this paper are to (a) critically examine how disability has been constructed in mainstream society by introducing perspectives from contemporary disability studies theories, and (b) apply a critically reflexive lens informed by disability studies perspectives to occupational therapy practice. KEY ISSUES: Drawing upon critical disability perspectives, notions of "nondisabled" versus "disabled"; metanarratives of disability; built environments and social structures; and social and attitudinal constructions of disability and identity are examined. Key issues pertaining to rehabilitation, norms, client-centred practice, language, and education within occupational therapy are discussed. IMPLICATIONS: This critically reflexive examination has revealed the ways in which occupational therapy and society at large are embedded in discourses that may reinforce negative connotations around disability. A renewed understanding of disability may challenge current practices.
BACKGROUND: Within professional and practice knowledge there are many assumptions about disability that underpin occupational therapy philosophy. PURPOSE: The objectives of this paper are to (a) critically examine how disability has been constructed in mainstream society by introducing perspectives from contemporary disability studies theories, and (b) apply a critically reflexive lens informed by disability studies perspectives to occupational therapy practice. KEY ISSUES: Drawing upon critical disability perspectives, notions of "nondisabled" versus "disabled"; metanarratives of disability; built environments and social structures; and social and attitudinal constructions of disability and identity are examined. Key issues pertaining to rehabilitation, norms, client-centred practice, language, and education within occupational therapy are discussed. IMPLICATIONS: This critically reflexive examination has revealed the ways in which occupational therapy and society at large are embedded in discourses that may reinforce negative connotations around disability. A renewed understanding of disability may challenge current practices.
Authors: Christina Cassady; Rehana Meru; Nga Man Carmen Chan; Julie Engelhardt; Michelle Fraser; Stephanie Nixon Journal: Physiother Can Date: 2014 Impact factor: 1.037