The experiences of occupational therapists regarding the use of the Model of Occupational Self Efficacy

BACKGROUND: Studies exploring the views of occupational therapists about the vocational rehabilitation models of practice related to individuals with brain injury are limited. The views of occupational therapists regarding the use of vocational rehabilitation are important in the development of successful vocational rehabilitation programmes. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of occupational therapists regarding the use of the model of occupational self-efficacy. PARTICIPANTS: Five occupational therapists participated in the study. METHODS: The research study was positioned within the qualitative paradigm specifically utilizing an exploratory and descriptive research design. In order to gather data, semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. RESULTS: Two themes emerged from the findings of the study. One theme reflected the barriers related to the use of the model, i.e. Theme one: Challenges related to the use of the model. The second theme related to the enabling factors related to the use of the model, i.e. Theme two: The model as an enabler of work skills. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicated that the Model of Occupational Self Efficacy (MoOS) is a useful model to use in retraining the work skills of an individual with brain injury. The participants in this study could maintain employment in the open labour market for a period of at least 12 months and it improved their ability to accept their brain injury as well as adapt to their worker roles. The MoOS also provides a framework for facilitating work integration.