CASES AND CONCEPTS IN OCCUPATIONAL ADAPTATION. TRANSLATING THEORY INTO ACTION

"This book follows a 2001 publication introducing the then-budding theory in Occupational Adaptation in Practice: Concepts and Cases by our dearly departed colleagues and friends Dr. Janette K. Schkade and Melissa McClung. Their early work and desire to make occupational adaptation theory accessible to students and practitioners inspired our efforts to update the language, include the research that informs occupational adaptation theory, and provide fresh examples of cases and practice models that exemplify its application. Dr. Schkade and McClung believed "that theory is extremely useful in guiding a practice that is versatile, effective, and efficient. However, the usefulness of theory depends on the therapist having a working understanding of the principles. A thorough understanding enables the therapist to be creative and responsive to the dynamic needs of the client." Developed as part of a planning process for the PhD in occupational therapy program at Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas, occupational adaptation was designed to provide a research focus and to be a guide for therapeutic intervention. Occupational adaptation first appeared in print in a two-part article in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy (Schkade & Schultz, 1992; Schultz & Schkade, 1992). Here is what you can expect as you read this book: Each chapter starts with a quote that enhances the theme to follow. We have linked concepts and constructs from professional literature that illustrate how studies related to occupational adaptation have contributed to our understanding. We have included several references to Eleanor Clarke Slagle lectures that align with the theory and its application in order to show congruence with renowned thinkers and trends in occupational therapy. Fresh and varied cases have been added to further illustrate what it looks like to apply theory in practice. The neuroscience that underlies the occupational adaptation process is explained to help the reader connect both the art and the science of occupational therapy. Worksheets are provided to prompt application to self and also to practice applying theory to practice scenarios. We think this text will be useful to the novice, as well as the seasoned, practitioner, for whom we have included "A Deeper Dive" to challenge application even further into practice and occupational science. Finally, we end by sharing occupational adaptation practice models designed by occupational therapists to guide both traditional and innovative practice. We agree with Dr. Schkade and McClung's intent and we also "hope that this book will increase your commitment to, your enjoyment of, and your excitement about the practice of client-centered occupational therapy.""-