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Research Article  |   January 2008
Theory Use in Practice: A National Survey of Therapists Who Use the Model of Human Occupation
Sun Wook Lee; Renee Taylor; Gary Kielhofner; Gail Fisher
Author Affiliations
  • Sun Wook Lee, MS, OTR, is a doctoral student in Disability Studies, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1919 West Taylor Street, 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60612; slee204@uic.edu
  • Renee Taylor, PhD, is Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Gary Kielhofner, DrPH, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor, Wade/Meyer Chairperson, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Gail Fisher, MPA, OTR/L, is Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
Article Information
Evidence-Based Practice / Professional Issues
Research Article   |   January 2008
Theory Use in Practice: A National Survey of Therapists Who Use the Model of Human Occupation
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January/February 2008, Vol. 62, 106-117. doi:10.5014/ajot.62.1.106
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January/February 2008, Vol. 62, 106-117. doi:10.5014/ajot.62.1.106
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Abstract

OBJECTIVE. This study describes how occupational therapists who reported using the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) actually use the concepts and tools of this model in everyday practice as well as identifies supports and barriers to its use.

METHOD. A systematic random sample of 1,000 occupational therapists was surveyed as to what theories they used in their practice. Those using MOHO (430) were sent a detailed questionnaire; 259 therapists (60.2%) responded to the survey questionnaire.

RESULTS. More than 80% of respondents indicated that they used MOHO in their practice at least some of the time. Therapists reported that MOHO supports holistic, occupation-focused, client-centered, and evidence-based practice. They reported finding MOHO concepts useful for treatment planning and intervention. Most saw the major barrier to using MOHO as their own lack of knowledge.

CONCLUSION. Making resources more readily available and accessible to therapists might enhance the extent to which they use conceptual models such as MOHO.