The implementation of a new conceptual framework for occupational engagement in forensic settings: feasibility and application to occupational therapy practice

Morris, Karen ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9272-4994 and Ward, Kath ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2705-6878 (2018) The implementation of a new conceptual framework for occupational engagement in forensic settings: feasibility and application to occupational therapy practice. Mental Health Review Journal, 23 (4). pp. 308-319.

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Abstract

Purpose: Facilitation of genuine occupational engagement rather than a more superficial level of participation that has minimal therapeutic benefit is a challenge within secure mental health settings. The purpose of this paper is to develop, pilot and evaluate therapeutic tools based on a framework of occupational engagement.

Design/methodology/approach: The study used action research with occupational therapists from two secure residential units. Focus group discussions gathered participants’ views of how the occupational engagement framework could be used to inform a therapeutic tool. Following the development and piloting of the subsequent tools, focus groups were again used to review their usefulness in practice. Discussions were audio recorded and thematically analysed.

Findings: Three tools were designed and piloted. Evaluation revealed a number of benefits and different ways in which the tools could be used in practice.

Research limitations/implications: This research has indicated that the occupational engagement framework has potential for increasing understanding of the relationship between the value and consequences of participating in occupations. The limited timescale of the research restricted the opportunity to fully explore the tools’ potential effectiveness as outcome measures.

Practical implications: The clinical tools developed within this research have provided some information to the clinical teams which has contributed to their understanding of how service users experience participating in occupations.

Originality/value: The occupational engagement framework and resulting tools have the potential to enhance understanding of occupational engagement within secure settings.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	Mental Health Review Journal
Publisher:	Emerald
ISSN:	2042-8758
Departments:	Academic Departments > Health, Psychology & Social Studies (HPSS) > Rehabilitation
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	06 Nov 2018 15:56
Last Modified:	13 Jan 2024 08:00
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/4173

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