Abstract
As the literature states, interoception is important in health and wellness. Disruption of this system can negatively impact occupational performance. We completed a descriptive study to understand how occupational therapy practitioners working with adults address interoceptive awareness. A researcher-developed survey gathered data on knowledge acquisition of interoception and perceived practice patterns related to assessment, intervention, and outcomes. Participants (N = 44) reported acquiring knowledge of interoception through professional websites, browsing databases, and continuing education as the most common information sources. Client self-report (56.8%) and clinical observation (54.5%) were the most commonly reported assessments. Rehabilitation practitioners (n = 8) reported no use of formal assessments. Most participants (63.89%) reported interoceptive awareness interventions to be effective. Further research is needed on best practices for interoception assessment and intervention related to occupational performance.
Plain Language Summary
Interoception is an advanced sensory system that provides sensory information from the inside of the body to help with the regulation of emotions and support homeostasis. A person’s ability to effectively utilize interoceptive awareness routinely has been implicated with supporting overall health and well-being. The authors completed a study to better understand how occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) working with adult clients with physical and mental health concerns evaluate and use interoceptive awareness interventions to promote health and wellness. Information was collected from 44 OTPs working with adults regarding their knowledge and practices on the topic of interoception. The study conducted by the authors revealed that the practitioners mainly gained knowledge about interoception from browsing databases and professional websites. Therapists reported evaluation of interoceptive awareness through client observation, client report, and limited formal testing was used. A substantial number of participants (63.89%) felt addressing interoceptive awareness effectively achieved health, well-being, and occupational participation. Further studies are needed to help inform the occupational therapy community about the importance of evaluating and treating interoception. Supportive data from research can guide educators and practitioners in creating a uniform way to address interoception taught in academic settings and used as best practice to achieve desired clinical outcomes and support holistic well-being for the adult population.
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