Date of Award

1995

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Karen Clayton

Second Advisor

Judith S. Blanchard

Third Advisor

Maralynne D. Mitcham

Abstract

In this changing age of health care it has become even more important to reevaluate the effectiveness and relevance of patient education. Traditionally, patients have been given extensive occupational therapy home instruction programs with little thought to the patient's perspective or ability to comply. Among pediatric occupational therapists there continues to be some debate as to whether it is even beneficial for parents to perform activities at home with their children. The purpose of this study was to use a qualitative research approach with focus group methodology to 1) gain a better understanding of the life experiences and perceptions of parents regarding occupational therapy home instruction programs for their children with special needs, and 2) identify the facilitators and barriers to the delivery of occupational therapy home instruction programs. A focus group of seven mothers of children with special needs was conducted. The written transcription of the group was analyzed for emerging content, clusters and categories. Four themes emerged related to the life experiences and perceptions of parents in regard to their home instruction programs. It was concluded from these themes that the parents of children with special needs have a strong desire to be involved in home instruction programs that provide direction, hope and control; despite the isolation, depression and overwhelming life style demands that are a part of the lived experience. Two themes emerged related to the barriers and facilitators of home instruction programs. It was concluded from these themes that parents of children with special needs perceive a variety of emotive and cognitive factors as both barriers and facilitators to the delivery of the home instruction program for their child with special needs. The results from this study offer insight and direction for the provision of quality occupational therapy home instruction programs that will ultimately improve overall patient care.

Rights

All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.

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