Practice analysis: Critical reflexivity on discourses constraining socially transformative occupational therapy practices

Abstract

Statement of context:

Despite recognition of the potential of occupation for enacting social transformation, occupational therapy continues to struggle in developing and enacting practice approaches that address sociopolitical barriers to people’s right to engage in occupations.

Critical reflection on practice:

Ways of thinking and writing about problems and solutions, that is discourses, shape occupational therapy practices. This article draws attention to three dominant discourses that constrain the development of occupational therapy practices aimed at social transformation, specifically, individualism, healthism and managerialism.

Implications for practice:

Examining discourses that bound occupational therapy practice can open spaces for alternative ways of thinking and more socially responsive practices addressing sociopolitical barriers to occupation.