Empowerment and occupation: a new perspective
- Autores: Karen R Whalley Hammell
- Localización: Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, ISSN 0008-4174, Vol. 83, Nº. 5, 2016, págs. 281-287
- Idioma: inglés
- Títulos paralelos:
- Autonomisation et occupation: une nouvelle perspective
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Resumen
Background. The idea of empowerment permeates the occupational therapy literature yet has received little critical reflection from occupational therapy’s theorists. Purpose. This paper aims to explore the concept of empowerment and highlight a recent definition that resonates with occupational therapists’ core values. Key Issues. Empowerment is generally understood to be a process of bestowing power and giving ability to someone deficient in both. However, a new definition provides a framework for understanding how empowerment might enhance people’s capabilities. Implications. The World Bank’s depiction of empowerment fits well with occupational therapists’ beliefs in the importance of the ability and opportunity to “do,” providing a framework for action. This framework focuses on people’s capabilities: their freedom—or opportunity—to choose what they wish to do and to be and their ability to act on these wishes. Moreover, the World Bank’s assertion that empowered people have freedom of both choice and action suggests empowerment is a relevant concept for occupational therapists.
