Research Articles (Occupational Therapy)

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Influencing return to work among women with acquired brain injury
(John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2025) Darries, Zareena; Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed
Purpose: Research indicates that women with brain injury have a higher risk of not resuming their work roles. This study investigates the influence of sociodemographic, impairment‐related and environmental factors on the return‐to‐work outcomes of women with acquired brain injury in Cape Metropolitan, South Africa. Methods: A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 139 women aged 18–65 with acquired brain injury in Cape Metropolitan, South Africa. Participants were conveniently sampled, and the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 26, focusing on sociodemographic, impairment‐related and environmental factors influencing return to work outcomes. Results: Women with acquired brain injury who participated in this study yielded a postinjury return to work rate of 61.2%. Older women were less likely to return to work (odds ratio: 0.905). Environmental support, particularly from workplace supervisors or managers, significantly enhanced RTW (odds ratio: 5.660). Marital status, impairment‐related restrictions, type of vocational intervention and family support were not significant predictors of return to work. Conclusion: These results highlight the necessity for multidimensional and integrative RTW programmes that address both personal and systemic barriers. Such programmes are essential to promoting sustained economic participation and improving the quality of life for women with ABI.
The challenges that individuals with MDRTB and TB experience when returning to work after completing TB treatment in the Western Cape, South Africa
(SAGE Publications Ltd, 2025) Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed; Jainodien, Ayesha; Smith, Mario
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) and multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB have been identified as one of the largest health problems in the world, and notably recognised as a major concern in South Africa. Socio-demographic factors such as poverty and unemployment has been identified as major contributing factors to the epidemic. Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the barriers and enablers of return to work (RTW) for individuals living with MDRTB and Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) in the Western Cape, South Africa. The qualitative exploration was part of a larger study that resulted in a return-to-work programme for individuals with MDRTB and TB. Method: Qualitative methodology was employed for this study. Semi-structured interviews were used with 5 key informants and 4 participants diagnosed with PTB and MDR-TB. The data was analysed by means of thematic analysis. Results: The participants described the barriers and facilitators of their RTW process and the factors that were of critical importance in the resumption of the worker role. Two themes represent the barriers, and two themes represent the enablers of RTW. The four major themes were 1) A sense of disbelief in one's own potential, 2) The contextual environment influences an individual's worker role, 3) The future of Occupational Therapy (OT) services in TB rehabilitation, and 4) Engagement in activities alleviates feelings of despondency. Conclusion: The study highlighted that contextual barriers such as poor socio-economic factors negatively influenced individuals diagnosed with PTB/MDRTB from initiating and completing rehabilitation programmes. The lack of resources in public facilities were also noted as one of the main barriers described by the rehabilitation care specialists. The facilitators that supported the completion of rehabilitation programmes enhancing the life skills of and work related skills as part of the PTB/MDRTB intervention provided to clients or patients. Early engagement in work skills improvement programmes may enhance the worker roles of individuals with PTB/MDRTB
A study exploring procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities
(Public Library of Science, 2025) Soeker, Shaheed Mogammad; Monareng, Luther Lebogang; Naidoo, Deshini
Background Attaining the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Goals, such as fighting poverty and involving adults in work, requires the involvement of professionals such as occupational therapists. Persons with disabilities are among the adults to whom occupational therapists provide work or vocational rehabilitation services for productivity and well-being. Occupational therapists have skills such as analysing tasks to determine associated demands and requirements. The analysis ensures task feasibility, suitability, and matching of persons with disabilities. However, anecdotal evidence indicates that occupational therapists lack a systematic and practical approach to select and analyse suitable microenterprises for individuals with disabilities they serve. The objectives of this study were to address the gap in occupational therapy by exploring the i) selection of a suitable microenterprise for persons with disabilities and ii) factors to consider when analysing microenterprises to ensure successful outcomes. Thus, this study aims to explore procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities. Methods Seventeen participants participated in this exploratory qualitative research, three male. They were occupational therapists based in academia, clinical settings and learners with Special Education Needs Schools, respectively. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit the participants. Data was analysed using thematic analysis using the hybrid inductive and deductive approach. Ethical clearance was issued by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. Results Two themes emerged. Theme one: The process of selecting an appropriate microenterprise.
Examining self-employment policies for persons with disabilities in South Africa: perspectives from policy actors
(Public Library of Science, 2025) Soeker, Shaheed Mogammad; Monareng, Luther Lebogang; Naidoo, Deshini
Background Despite robust global and national efforts to promote inclusive development, a significant gap persists in countries such as South Africa’s self-employment policies for persons with disabilities. The existing legislative framework, although well-intentioned, lacks clear and comprehensive guidance on self-employment as a viable placement option for persons with disabilities. Consequently, this ambiguity hinders effective policy implementation, limiting economic empowerment and social inclusion. This research aimed to explore the existence of self-employment-specific policies for persons with disabilities and policy actors’ involved in South Africa. Methods The participants (n=47) had an average of 10 years of experience in self-employment for persons with disabilities, holding qualifications ranging from no formal education to master’s degrees. This qualitative study ensured transparent and systematic reporting using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. Purposive and snowball sampling were utilised to recruit participants. Data were collected using a piloted question guide and analysed using the NVIVO software. Data was analysed thematically. Ethics clearance, relevant gatekeepers’ permission and informed written consent from participants were obtained. Results Two themes emerged, namely, theme one: The status quo on self-employment-specific policies for persons with disabilities. Participants reported on the absence of explicit policies on self-employment for persons with disabilities, the lack of effectiveness in inclusive South African legal frameworks and their lack of impact on promoting self-employment opportunities. Theme two: policy actors’ involvement in self-employment-specific policies for persons with disabilities. Participants reported on the roles and responsibilities of policy actors and strategies to promote self-employment opportunities for persons with disabilities through policy reforms.
A study exploring procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities
(Public Library of Science, 2025) Soeker, Shaheed Mogammad; Monareng, Luther Lebogang; Naidoo, Deshini
Background Attaining the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Goals, such as fighting poverty and involving adults in work, requires the involvement of professionals such as occupational therapists. Persons with disabilities are among the adults to whom occupational therapists provide work or vocational rehabilitation services for productivity and well-being. Occupational therapists have skills such as analysing tasks to determine associated demands and requirements. The analysis ensures task feasibility, suitability, and matching of persons with disabilities. However, anecdotal evidence indicates that occupational therapists lack a systematic and practical approach to select and analyse suitable microenterprises for individuals with disabilities they serve. The objectives of this study were to address the gap in occupational therapy by exploring the i) selection of a suitable microenterprise for persons with disabilities and ii) factors to consider when analysing microenterprises to ensure successful outcomes. Thus, this study aims to explore procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities. Methods Seventeen participants participated in this exploratory qualitative research, three male. They were occupational therapists based in academia, clinical settings and learners with Special Education Needs Schools, respectively. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit the participants. Data was analysed using thematic analysis using the hybrid inductive and deductive approach. Ethical clearance was issued by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. Results Two themes emerged. Theme one: The process of selecting an appropriate microenterprise. This theme describes the participant’s insight into the approach to microenterprise selection, the use of the microenterprise list or options available, and the distinct features of these microenterprises. Theme two: Factors to consider when analysing a suitable microenterprise as a placement option. The theme explores microenterprise accessibility, the key role players involved, business demands, and funding availability and access. Conclusion/discussion/interpretation For microenterprise selection and suitability analysis, a comprehensive, systematic and contextualised approach is crucial to facilitate self-employment as a viable career choice. Such includes integrating a list of microenterprises found in South Africa for career choice consideration. Moreover, there are essential factors for consideration, including the involvement of various key role players, legal and regulatory frameworks, funding sources and leveraging the strengths of persons with disabilities. These factors, effectively integrated with occupational therapists’ expertise in vocational rehabilitation, can enhance the vocational success of persons with disabilities
The development of a vocational rehabilitation program to assist individuals with mdrtb and tb in returning to work
(John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2025) Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed; Jainodien, Ayesha
Background: Individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB may struggle to return to work after they have completed a rehabilitation program. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) has been seen as a condition that is resistant to treatment, hence causing individuals to be economically in-active for considerable periods of time. Objective: The aim of the current study was to explore the views of individuals living with MDRTB, individuals with TB, and health professionals treating individuals with TB and MDRTB about the development of a vocational rehabilitation program. Method: The researchers used an exploratory descriptive research design, and semistructured interviews were conducted with five key informants and four participants who were diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and MDRTB. Thematic analysis was used in order to analyse the study findings. The current study is the second of two articles. The first article focused on barriers and facilitators linked to returning to work for individuals living with TB and MDRTB. The current article focuses on the development of a vocational rehabilitation program. Results: The findings of the original study revealed five themes; however, for the purpose of this article, only two themes will be presented, namely, Theme 1: promoting a holistic model and Theme 2: the use of resources for activity engagement. The latter theme contributed to the participant’s view of the development of a vocational rehabilitation program. Conclusion: The study provided a description of the components of a vocational rehabilitation program that has been adapted from the Model of Occupational Self-Efficacy (MOOSE). The above program has been designed for individuals diagnosed with PTB/MDRTB and has the potential to assist them in returning to work. It is suggested that vocational rehabilitation programs be incorporated into general medical programs that focus on improving the functioning of individuals diagnosed with PTB/MDRTB. Copyright © 2025 Mogammad Shaheed Soeker and Ayesha Jainodien. Occupational Therapy International
Health maintenance and wellness of older adults with noncommunicable diseases during covid-19 restrictions: Goal 3
(URHJ, 2024) Mthembu, Thuli
Background. The COVID-19 pandemic preventive measures were implemented to curb coronavirus transmission but also impacted the risks and mortality associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Older adults, who are particularly vulnerable, have been especially affected, yet there is limited research on how to maintain their health and wellness. Objectives. To explore the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the health maintenance and wellness of older adults with NCDs in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Methods: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative design was used, involving WhatsApp phone calls and nine semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results. The data revealed two themes: COVID-19-induced health inequalities among older adults and their efforts toward a growth mindset. The findings indicate that the violation of human dignity among older adults with NCDs was exacerbated by limited access to healthcare facilities and fears of infection. However, their willingness to adapt enabled them to make necessary adjustments. Conclusion. The disruption of healthcare services impacted the health maintenance and wellness of older adults with NCDs, prompting them to rely on both their internal and external capacities to strengthen their growth mindset and resilience. This highlights the need for disaster-resilient, people-centred primary health care and universal health coverage for older adults with NCDs.
Covid-19 and higher education: a qualitative study on academic experiences of African international students in the Midwest
(Applied Research in Quality of Life, 2023) Majee, Wilson; David, Ifeolu; Kehinde, Omoshola; Tefera, Gashaye M
COVID-19 pandemic has harshly impacted university students since the outbreak was declared in March 2020. A population impacted the most was international college students due to limited social networks, restrictive employment opportunities, and travel limitations. Despite the increased vulnerability, there has been limited research on the experiences of African-born international students during the pandemic. Using an exploratory qualitative design, this study interviewed 15 African-born international students to understand their experiences during the pandemic. Thematic analysis revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic influenced participants’ academic life directly via an abrupt shift to online learning and indirectly through disruptions in an academic work routine, opportunities for networking, and career advancement, resulting in lower academic performance and productivity. These experiences were worsened by other social and regulatory barriers associated with their non-immigrant status. The study findings suggest an increased need for institutional and community support for international students as vulnerable populations during a crisis to promote sustained academic success.
Understandings and practices: Towards socially responsive curricula for the health professions
(Springer, 2023) Hansen, Anthea; Engel-Hills, Penelope; Hess-April, Lucia
Global health inequities have created an urgency for health professions education to transition towards responsive and contextually relevant curricula. Such transformation and renewal processes hold significant implications for those educators responsible for implementing the curriculum. Currently little is known about how health professions educators across disciplines understand a responsive curriculum and how this understanding might influence their practice. We looked at curricula that aim to deliver future health care professionals who are not only clinically competent but also critically conscious of the contexts in which they serve and the health care systems within which they practice.
Participant perspectives on the effects of an african american faith-based health promotion educational intervention: a qualitative study
(Pubmed, 2022) Anakwe, Adaobi
Background In the USA, African Americans (AAs) experience a greater burden of mortality and morbidity from chronic health conditions including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Faith-based programs are a culturally sensitive approach that potentially can address the burden of chronic health conditions in the AA community. Objective The primary objective was to assess (i) the perceptions of participants of Live Well by Faith (LWBF)—a government supported faith-based program to promote healthy living across several AA churches—on the efectiveness of the program in promoting overall wellness among AAs. A secondary objective was to explore the role of the church as an intervention unit for health promotion among AAs. Methods Guided by the socio-ecological model, data were collected through 21 in-depth interviews (71% women) with six AA church leaders, 10 LWBF lifestyle coaches, and fve LWBF program participants. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by three of the researchers. Findings Several themes emerged suggesting there was an efect of the program at multiple levels: the intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and community levels. Most participants reported increased awareness about chronic health conditions, better social supports to facilitate behavior change, and creation of health networks within the community. Conclusion Our study suggests that one approach to address multilevel factors in a culturally sensitive manner could include developing government-community partnership to co-create interventions
The past is so present: Understanding Covid‑19 vaccine hesitancy among African American adults using qualitative data
(Springer, 2022) Majee, Wilson; Anakwe, Adaobi; Onyeaka, Kelechi
African Americans (AAs) are disproportionately afected by structural and social determinants of health, resulting in greater risks of exposure to and deaths from COVID-19. Structural and social determinants of health feed vaccine hesitancy and worsen health disparities.The present study aims to explore vaccine attitudes and intentions among program participants, understand the role of an African American faith-based wellness program in COVID-19 awareness and vaccine uptake, and solicit potential solutions for this deep-rooted public health problem.
Unpreparedness and uncertainty: a qualitative study of African American experiences during COVID-19 pandemic
(Sociological Spectrum, 2022) Majee, Wilson; Anakwe, Adaobi; David, Ifeolu; BeLue, Rhonda
During disasters, vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected. COVID-19 disproportionately affected African American (AA) families, increasing their risk for COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. The pandemic also exacerbated existing negative milieu such as economic opportunity and access to social and healthcare services. We explored AA families’ experiences of indirect pandemic effects. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth telephone interviews with 11 AA parent/grandparents of school-aged child (5–17 years). Line-by-line coding and thematic analysis were used to analyze and interpret the data. Three emergent themes highlighted the salient indirect effects of COVID-19 pandemic on AA families: (i) access to healthcare, (ii) access to food, and (iii) disaster unpreparedness. Participants expressed frustration with virtual healthcare services and inability to schedule in-person hospital appointments for health conditions unrelated to COVID-19. Lack of food products in stores and limited financial resources due to pandemic-related job layoffs were important food insecurity factors discussed. Unpreparedness on the part of institutions, state, and the nation, created heightened perceptions of vulnerability. Given the social vulnerability spectrum in the U.S., pandemic planning approaches that promote equity are critical if public officials are to develop effective adaptation, mitigation, response, and recovery plans that mobilize and serve diverse populations.
“This pandemic has changed our daily living”: Young adults’ leisure experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa
(Journal of Occupational Science, 2022) Wegner, Lisa; Stirrup, Shannon; Desai, Himali; De Jongh, Jo-Celene
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global human ecosystem disruption affecting almost every facet of daily living. South Africa adopted a risk-adjusted approach comprising five-levels to curb the spread of COVID-19. Early in 2020, the country experienced level 5 and 4 restrictions, indicating high COVID-19 spread with low to moderate health system readiness. South Africans were largely confined to their homes. This study explored young adults’ experiences of leisure engagement during the confinement, adaptations made, and the influence on health and wellbeing. Thirteen occupational therapy student researchers conducted individual qualitative, exploratory-descriptive studies on young adults’ leisure experiences during the level 5 and 4 confinements. The authors used a qualitative meta-analytic approach to review the student researchers’ primary studies and synthesize findings for this paper. The sample comprised 65 participants aged 18 to 32 years (mean age 22.2 years), the majority being either students or employed. Participants were interviewed online or submitted written responses to open-ended questions focusing on their leisure engagement during the confinement. Relevant data were extracted from the primary studies and analyzed thematically. Four themes emerged: 1) disruption, 2) time, 3) adaptations to change, and 4) leisure benefits. Although participants experienced the confinement as disruptive, and restricting their leisure and social engagement, they adapted and developed new leisure occupations, which had a positive influence on their health and wellbeing. In conclusion, the young adults dealt with the occupational injustices of confinement by adapting their leisure engagement, thus displaying occupational resilience, which positively influenced health and well-being.
Predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria
(Hong Kong Occupational Therapy Association (HKOTA), 2021) Anthea, R.; Soeker, S.M.; Olaoye, O.A.
Stroke is acknowledged globally and among Nigerian rehabilitation researchers as a public health problem that leaves half of its survivors with significant neurological deficits and inability to re-establish pre-existing roles. Consequent to the dearth of country specific data on return to work and its determinants for stroke survivors in Nigeria, this study investigated the predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria.
A descriptive, qualitative study of the challenges that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience when transitioning from skills training programs into the open labor market in Cape Town, South Africa
(IOS Press, 2020) Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed
BACKGROUND: There is limited existence of qualitative research on adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who are transitioning between skills training programs and finding employment in the open labor market, in South Africa. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this current study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of individuals living with ASD, regarding transitioning from a skills training program to working in the open labor market. PARTICIPANTS: The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten participants, who were diagnosed with ASD, and working in the open labor market, as well as five key informants, who have worked with autistic individuals in a skills training program. METHODS: The data collected, using an explorative, descriptive, qualitative method, were analyzed using thematic analysis, and resulted in three emerging themes. RESULTS: Theme one: The 'disorder' in the workplace -The individual and collective barriers that individuals experience in the workplace are described, including social, emotional, and communication difficulties, as well as the stigmatization experienced by persons with a disability. Theme two: Making the workplace work -The facilitative support that individuals are exposed to, in the form of intervention from occupational therapists, sensory psychologists, and other forms of skills training programs, are described. In addition to supportive intervention, the relationships and networking within, and outside of the workplace, are discussed in theme two. Theme three: What works for me -The individual adaptations made by the participants, in the form of unique coping mechanisms in the workplace, as well as in the home environment, are discussed. CONCLUSION: It was observed that, while there are barriers to the transitioning of autistic individuals into the open labor market, there are enablers that facilitate a less challenging transitioning process, in the form of family and workplace support, as well as skills training, and self-identified coping mechanisms. © 2020 - IOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved.
Ease and equity of access to free DR-TB services in Nigeria- a qualitative analysis of policies, structures and processes
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2020) Oga-Omenka, Charity; Bada, Florence; Agbaje, Aderonke; Dakum, Patrick; Menzies, Dick; Zarowsky, Christina
Introduction: Persistent low rates of case notification and treatment coverage reflect that accessing diagnosis and treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) in Nigeria remains a challenge, even though it is provided free of charge to patients. Equity in health access requires availability of comparable, appropriate services to all, based on needs, and irrespective of socio-demographic characteristics. Our study aimed to identify the reasons for Nigeria’s low rates of case-finding and treatment for DR-TB. To achieve this, we analyzed elements that facilitate or hinder equitable access for different groups of patients within the current health system to support DR-TB management in Nigeria. Methods: We conducted documentary review of guidelines and workers manuals, as well as 57 qualitative interviews, including 10 focus group discussions, with a total of 127 participants, in Nigeria. Between August and November 2017, we interviewed patients who were on treatment, their treatment supporter, and providers in Ogun and Plateau States, as well as program managers in Benue and Abuja. We adapted and used Levesque’s patient-centered access to care framework to analyze DR-TB policy documents and interview data. Results: Thematic analysis revealed inequitable access to DR-TB care for some patient socio-demographic groups. While patients were mostly treated equally at the facility level, some patients experienced more difficulty accessing care based on their gender, age, occupation, educational level and religion. Health system factors including positive provider attitudes and financial support provided to the patients facilitated equity and ease of access. However, limited coverage and the absence of patients’ access rights protection and considerations in the treatment guidelines and workers manuals likely hampered access. Conclusion: In the context of Nigeria’s low case-finding and treatment coverage, applying an equity of access framework was necessary to highlight gaps in care. Differing social contexts of patients adversely affected their access to DR-TB care. We identified several strengths in DR-TB care delivery, including the current financial support that should be sustained. Our findings highlight the need for government’s commitment and continued interventions.
Sink or swim: Virtual life challenges among African American families during COVID-19 lockdown
(MDPI, 2021) Majee, Wilson; Anakwe, Adaobi; Noel-London, Kembe; Zachary, Iris; Belue, Rhonda
This study explores African American parents’ experiences with using technology toengage their children in meaningful activities (e.g., e-learning) during COVID-19 and its impact on family health. Eleven African American families were recruited through a local health department program from a rural Midwestern community to participate in semi-structured interviews. The majority of participants reported stresses from feelings of “sink or swim” in a digital world, without supports from schools to effectively provide for their children’s technology needs. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of family-school collaborative engagement and empowerment. Digital technology needs to become part of our school education system so that technology use among African Americans is elevated and families protected against future outbreaks. Further research with a more diverse African American sample is needed.
Predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria
(Sage Publications Inc., 2021) Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed; Olaoye, Olumide Ayoola; Rhoda, Anthea
Introduction: Stroke is acknowledged globally and among Nigerian rehabilitation researchers as a public health problem that leaves half of its survivors with significant neurological deficits and inability to re-establish pre-existing roles. Consequent to the dearth of country specific data on return to work and its determinants for stroke survivors in Nigeria, this study investigated the predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria. Method: Two hundred and ten stroke survivors from five tertiary health facilities in Osun state, Nigeria responded to a validated three-section questionnaire assessing return to work rates and its determinants after stroke in this study. Collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistic of chi-square, t-test and multiple logistic regression. Result: The mean age of the respondents was 52.90 ± 7.92 years. Over 60% of the respondents returned to work with about half of them in full time employment (32.9%). Majority of the respondents noted that travel to and from work (43.8%) and access at work (43.3%) had an impact on their ability to work. The symptoms of stroke (odds ratio (OR) = 0.87), the environment (OR = 0.83), body function impairments (OR = 0.86) as well as activity and participation problems (OR = 0.80) were the significant predictors of return to work. Hemiplegia or paresis of the non-dominant side of the body was associated with a higher chance of return to work (OR = 7.64). Conclusion: Body function impairments, activity and participation problems were independent predictors of return to work after stroke. Similarly, side of hemiplegia plays a prominent role in resumption of the worker role of stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria. © The Author(s) 2021.
The experiences of individuals with schizophrenia using The model of Occupational Self-Efficacy in enhancing work skills and returning to work in the open labour market in Western Cape, South Africa
(South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2021) Soeker, Mogammad Shaheed; Abbas, Iesrafeel
Introduction: Evidence suggests that supported employment strategies improve the rates of employment for individuals with schizophrenia. The Model of Occupational Self-Efficacy (MOOSE) is such a strategy aimed at enhancing work skills and facilitating return to work (RTW). The aim of the current study was to explore the experiences of individuals with schizophrenia about the use of the MOOSE in enhancing work skills and facilitating RTW in the open labour market. Method: A qualitative research project with an interpretivist paradigm explored the experiences and perceptions of nine participants diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Two occupational therapists participated as key informants. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Barriers and facilitators to the use of the MOOSE were revealed. More importantly, the MOOSE enhanced the development of worker identities and contributed to the successful adaptation of worker roles in the RTW process of individuals with schizophrenia in the open labour market.Conclusion: The MOOSE is an effective supported employment strategy for persons with schizophrenia. Factors such as client-centred practice, the presence of social support, and ongoing therapeutic support contributed to the participants’ successful RTW experience. (PDF) The experiences of individuals with schizophrenia using the Model of Occupational Self-Efficacy in enhancing work skills and returning to work in the open labour market in Western Cape, South Africa.
A Commentary of occupational justice and occupation-based community development frameworks for social transformation: The Marikana event
(South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2021) Mthembu, Thuli Godfrey
Background: The Occupational justice framework is significant in enabling communities to collaborate with occupational therapists to strengthen social vision and enhance occupational potential. It has been highlighted that the occupational justice framework could be used in conjunction with Occupation-based Community Development programmes to enrich social transformation through engagement in community-led occupations. However, little is known about the applicability of both occupational justice and Occupation-based Community Development frameworks in designing programmes for communities that experienced collective trauma. Purpose: This commentary explores the Marikana event in terms of the occupational justice framework and its outcomes of occupational injustice. It further unpacks the occupation of protest and the factors predicting protest using the Marikana event. Conclusion: The applicability of Occupational Justice and Occupation-based Community Development frameworks can help occupational therapy clinicians, educators, and students collaborate with communities through a cycle of critical consciousness to achieve social vision, transformation, and healing. Recommendations are provided in relation to community-centred occupational therapy practice, education, and future research within a South African context. (PDF) A Commentary of Occupational Justice and Occupation-based Community Development Frameworks for Social Transformation: The Marikana Event. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350810812_A_Commentary_of_Occupational_Justice_and_Occupation-based_Community_Development_Frameworks_for_Social_Transformation_The_Marikana_Event [accessed Sep 20 2021].

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