Is occupational therapy an ableist health profession? A critical reflection on ableism and occupational therapy¹

Terapia ocupacional é uma profissão da saúde capacitista? Uma reflexão crítica sobre capacitismo e terapia ocupacional

Abstract

Introduction

There is a need to engage in critical reflection and reflexivity to deconstruct ableist conceptualisations and practices in occupational therapy. Objectives: 1) to discuss ableism as a social construction within a practice system, 2) to deconstruct ableist mechanisms employed within occupational therapy practice, and 3) to propose inclusive and justice-oriented practices that can improve patterns of practices within the occupational therapy profession.

Method

Online discussions and reflective writing, producing critical reflections, were done to curate our experiences and insights based on our personal and professional experiences, thoughts, and observations as Filipino occupational therapy practitioners. Critical reflexivity was seen both as process and output to address the research objectives.

Findings

Despite the efforts of scholars, educators, and practitioners in employing inclusive and justice-oriented occupational therapy practices, ableism continues to proliferate through overt and covert mechanisms within professional practices.

Conclusion

As the occupational therapy profession continues to evolve, practitioners are expected to be critically reflective and reflexive to mitigate discriminatory practices and promote inclusive and participatory practices today and beyond. This article hopes to serve as an eye-opener for occupational therapy practitioners and reconsider their doings, knowings, and sayings in their present and future practice.

Keywords:
Disability Studies; Professional Practices; Health Personnel; Philippines