Journal Article

A Conceptual Model for the Development of Professional Behaviours in Occupational Therapists

Kasar, Jack, Muscari, Mary E.

2000

Overview

The ever-changing, dynamic practice environment coupled with increased consumer needs and awareness create an atmosphere that requires optimal professionalism from occupational therapists. Professionalism requires specific knowledge, attitudes, and values — all manifested by professional behaviours. The authors assume that professional behaviours mature through a natural developmental process; a process that requires careful nurturing on the part of educators and clinical supervisors. Based on this assumption, the authors propose this conceptual model based on Erikson's life cycle stages. The model implies that occupational therapy professional behaviours develop sequentially through stages that begin during the educational process of occupational therapists, and progress throughout their career. The purpose of this model is to provide a framework for educators and supervisors to nurture professional behaviours in students and novice clinicians, and to continue their own professional growth.

• Publisher: SAGE Publications,Sage Publications, Inc,SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subject: Adults / Authors / Behavior Development / Career Mobility / Career Planning / Critical Thinking / Group Dynamics / Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice / Higher Education / Humans / Interpersonal Competence / Literature Reviews / Models, Theoretical / Occupational Therapists / Occupational Therapy / Professional Competence / Professional Development / Professional Identity / Professionalism / Reference Materials / Resistance (Psychology) / Socialization / Student Behavior / Supervision / Tables (Data) / Teaching Methods / Thinking Skills / Verbal Communication