Occupational Therapy and Imprisoned Adolescents: An Analysis of Professional Practices

Abstract

The care of adolescents in reclusion has been a field of work for occupational therapists in different parts of the world. The objective of this study was to describe and analyze Brazilian occupational therapists’ practices with adolescents in reclusion. Research conducted in Brazil, identifying 56 professionals, invited to answer a questionnaire (n = 43); participate in discussion groups (n = 9); and interview (n = 4). Professionals reported different visions that guide their practices, including the identification of individual skills and the profession’s possibilities for social action. Occupational therapists have specificities to work in these institutions, highlighting the possibilities of acting with a focus on social change. Practices in occupational therapy can lead to social change if focused on social issues. Social occupational therapy offers theoretical and methodological elements that inform the profession. Reflections on the practice carried out, according to a critical perspective, enable a performance in occupational therapy that intends social change.

Plain Language Summary

Occupational Therapy and Imprisoned Adolescents: An Analysis of Professional Practices

Introduction: In Brazil, the number of adolescents convicted of infractions is increasing. Judicial sanctions may be imposed on this population, including imprisonment. There are occupational therapists working with these adolescents, but their practices are little recorded and debated. Objective: The objective was to describe and analyze the practice of occupational therapists in custodial units of the Brazilian juvenile justice system. Methodology: Mapping and identification of occupational therapists in institutions of juvenile incarceration; questionnaire; workshops; semi-structured interviews; and synthesis meeting. Results and discussion: Forty-three professionals with diverse practices participated in this study. The collected data in the different stages of the research were analyzed based on social occupational therapy. Conclusion: Occupational therapy practices can lead to social change if focused on social issues. Social occupational therapy offers theoretical and methodological elements for that.