Occupational Therapists as Social Change Agents: Exploring Factors that Influence Their Actions

Abstract

Background. When acting effectively in their social change agent (SCA) role, occupational therapists can impact population health and occupational justice. However, empirical evidence of the influence of personal and environmental factors on their ability to act as SCAs is scarce. Purpose. To explore personal and environmental factors that influence the ability of occupational therapists to act as effective SCAs. Method. We conducted a descriptive interpretive qualitative study with 18 Québec occupational therapists recognized as successful SCAs. We collected data through semi-structured interviews with three focus groups and analyzed them thematically using a lexicon. Findings. We identified nine cross-cutting personal factors, including discovery, effective communication, and planning, that enable occupational therapists to act as successful SCAs. Six thematic groups of environmental factors facilitated or hindered their actions. Implications. To act effectively as SCAs, occupational therapists need to consider personal and environmental factors involved in their change project.