COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH WORK AS A MEANINGFUL OCCUPATION AND AN AGENT FOR CHANGE

The presentation will explain a participatory research form to empower clients in the mental health field called “User Interviewing User”. This is a qualitative approach to evaluate mental health services based on... [ view full abstract ]

The presentation will explain a participatory research form to empower clients in the mental health field called “User Interviewing User”. This is a qualitative approach to evaluate mental health services based on service-user experiences, in a dialogue-based form. Service-users are trained to conduct focus-group interviews on other service users´ experiences and opinions and formalize results into reports.

During the last 10 years, over 20 service-users have had the opportunity to undergo this training and carry out this form of research. They have conducted nearly 200 interviews in various settings, e.g. in an in-patient psychiatric unit, a day care center, an outreach community setting, with residents receiving community services, as well as with individuals who, against all odds, have joined the workforce.

Even though the presentation will touch on the results of the research, the focus will be on the methodology and how it can be used as a tool for empowerment of the user, as a step in the enhancement of their human rights, and as a means for fighting discrimination and stigma within the mental health field.

This form of OT work has led to innovation in service provision and pilot projects. However, the results have also lead to discussions on the extent to which work should continue focusing on adapting the individual to the system for active citizenship. Perhaps further scrutiny is needed of the educational system, health sector and employment area. OTs could play a crucial role in such work, applying their paradigm to promote societal change.