Reflections on the Professionalization of Occupational Therapy: Time to Put down the Looking Glass

Abstract

Background. Many changes have occurred in occupational therapy and its environment during the last 50 years. Despite major advances, occupational therapy is not well-known by the general public and concern remains about its professional status.Purpose. To review “professionalization,” and relate it to occupational therapy through reflection on major changes and critical events; to analyze the current status of occupational therapy; and to make suggestions for change.Key Issues. Professionalization is a dynamic, ongoing process; occupational groups achieve professional status through recognition by society, not by meeting a set list of criteria. A framework for professionalization allows examination of constraints on occupational autonomy and weighing of issues affecting internal and external dynamics. Application of the framework identified that occupational therapy in Canada today is mostly focused on its internal dynamic.Implications. To maintain and advance its professional status, occupational therapy must focus to the external dynamic to improve its recognition by the general public.