Thinking disability orientation : practicing affirmation

McCormack, C; Collins, B

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational therapy’s theoretical base is
informed by beliefs in empowerment, partnership, choice and
hope — all key components in client-centred practice (Sumsion
and Law 2006). In order to be client-centred, it is important
to appreciate an individual’s perception of their own disability,
known as their disability orientation.
Disability orientation, as described by Darling and Heckert
(2010), includes three aspects: disability identity; adherence to
a particular model of disability, and involvement in disability
rights activism. Each type of disability orientation will affect the
disabled person’s beliefs and feelings about themselves, their
impaired bodies and their disabled lives. This, in turn, is likely to
influence their expectations of and satisfaction with occupational
therapy services. Therefore, occupational therapists aiming to
work within a client-centred approach should be cognisant of
this concept and consider its possible impact on their therapeutic
approach.
This seminar will:
– Explore the concept of disability orientation and discuss
examples of different orientations;
– Examine the affirmative disability orientation as it relates to
occupational therapy;
– Enable participants to analyse and understand their clients’
disability orientation;
– Discuss strategies to provide intervention informed by a client’s
disability orientation.
Case studies will be used to promote discussion and explore
practical ways to ascertain an individual’s disability orientation.
The affirmative disability orientation will be discussed in
particular.
Impact on service users: Understanding disability orientation
could lead to enhanced client-centred and culturally sensitive
practice.
Implications for occupational therapy: Contribution to the
improvement of practice through the development of culturally
sensitive therapeutic strategies.

Citation

McCormack, C., & Collins, B. Thinking disability orientation : practicing affirmation. Presented at College of Occupational Therapists 36th Annual Conference and Exhibition, SECC, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: College of Occupational Therapists 36th Annual Conference and Exhibition
• Conference Location: SECC, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
• End Date: Jun 14, 2012
• Online Publication Date: Aug 1, 2012
• Publication Date: Jun 14, 2012
• Deposit Date: Jul 14, 2020
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/03080226120758S101
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.1177/03080226120758S101
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference