Family-centred practice in practice: the experiences of occupational therapists

Background: Research in rehabilitation and occupational therapy reveals that parents and professionals perceive family-centred practice (FCP) positively, but that there is limited evidence of the outcomes of family-centred... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Research in rehabilitation and occupational therapy reveals that parents and professionals perceive family-centred practice (FCP) positively, but that there is limited evidence of the outcomes of family-centred occupational therapy (FCOT) for child and family functioning. For better care and participation of disabled children and their families it is necessary that FCOT is systematically described and evaluated. This exploratory study will contribute to the first step by examining the meaning and essence of FCP as experienced by occupational therapists.
Method:
Ten to twelve occupational therapists, working with children aged 0-12 with mild to severe disabilities, and their families, will be individually interviewed twice in the winter of 2015-2016. They will be asked to tell about their experiences with FCP focusing on specific clients. A phenomenological method will be used for the analysis. In this way, through ‘practice-based evidence’, the experiential knowledge of occupational therapists will be developed to best practice.
Results:
The results will be known and described in May 2016.
Conclusion:
The conclusions will be known and described in May 2016.
Application to Practice:
The in-depth knowledge of this study will be used for the development of a guideline for family-centred occupational therapy and is therefore relevant for young clients and their families, occupational therapists and other team members. Furthermore, the obtained knowledge can be used for better education and adaptation of occupational therapy to the occupational needs of children with disabilities and their families.