The values of occupational therapy: Perceptions of occupational therapists in Quebec
Sammanfattning
Objective: Recently, there has been increasing interest in the values of occupational therapy and the values held by
occupational therapists. A wide range of values has been reported in the literature. Furthermore, despite the fact that
values are an important part of professional identity, empirical studies have demonstrated that several occupational
therapists possess an ambiguous professional identity. This study was undertaken to explore the values of Canadian
occupational therapists, specifically French-speaking occupational therapists in Quebec. Methods: Semi-structured
interviews were conducted with 26 occupational therapists. Their narratives were subject to hermeneutic analysis, a
method of textual analysis common in philosophical research. Results: A total of 16 values were identified in the
discourses of the occupational therapists interviewed: autonomy; human dignity; occupational participation; social justice
and equity; professionalism; holism; partnership, environment, or ecological approach; quality of life; solicitude; honesty;
integrity; health; creativity; professional autonomy; effectiveness; and spirituality. Conclusions: The results of this study
are, in general, consistent with those reported in the few other empirical studies that have documented the values
perceptions of occupational therapists. Finally, the explanation of the values of occupational therapists may reinforce their
professional identity and favour best, or at least desirable, professional practices related to ethics and culture.