Narrative Methods: Talk, Listening and Representation

Abstract

The involvement of the user in decisions about his or her own health and social care has become a key element of the changes encapsulated in the Government's legislation. Listening to the service user and responding to his or her needs is an integral part of that change. Occupational therapy philosophy has always engendered client-centred practice and, therefore, listening to and valuing the voice of the user. Now, more than ever, occupational therapists have to show that this is an integral part of their everyday practice. Narrative is one method that could be used to explore the lived experiences of users of occupational therapy. This study explored the relevant literature about narrative using qualitative methodology. The emerging themes from the data suggest that narrative, in its varied forms, could be a useful tool in clinical and research-based occupational therapy activity. Also, occupational therapists' own approach and reflexivity within the narrative process are key elements in the effectiveness of this technique.