HLSC 420 The Complexity of Human Occupation, Relationship of Occupation to Health and Wellbeing

Occupations

Activities people do daily to give life meaning and purpose, done alone or with others, and in various settings.

Activities

Actions people perform daily, which may not have personal meaning or be central to identity (e.g., putting on socks).

3 Key factors that distinguish occupation from activity

the subjectivity, context and time

Keys to distinguish occupation

vs. activity: Subjectivity

Occupation is the experience of a person, who is the sole author of the occupation’s

meaning

Activities are more general, descriptive categories whose meanings are culturally

shared rather than originating with one person

Keys to distinguish occupation

vs. activity: Context

occupations are non-repeatable and specifically located

• Activities are flexible regarding space, time, and physical and social surroundings

Keys to distinguish occupation

vs. activity; Time

Occupations are non-repeatable.

Activities are repetitive.

Co-Occupations

Occupations shared by two or more individuals, often performed simultaneously (e.g., caregiving between a parent and child).

Roles

Aspects of identity (e.g., parent, student) shaped by behaviors, guided by social norms and culture. help define self and others based on history and desires.

which organize behavior, set expectations, and evolve across the lifespan.

social designations with expected responsibilities and actions

Occupations are often influenced by..

life roles

Activities of Parenting

Specific behaviors (e.g., grooming a child) that are basic units of occupational performance in the parenting role.

Two types of Engagement that an OT can do to increase justice

Social Justice: Occupational Justice:

Social Justice

Promotes empowerment and participation in occupations.

Occupational Justice

Framework emphasizing meaning, participation, choice, and balance in occupations. Includes 5 types of injustice: alienation, deprivation, imbalance, marginalization, apartheid.