Shaping knowledge regarding occupation: examining the cultural underpinnings of the evolving concept of occupational identity.
OBJECTIVE
Within occupational therapy and occupational science, knowledge regarding occupation-based concepts is in the process of being developed, disseminated and acted upon internationally. It is critical to reflect on the forces shaping the ways in which this knowledge is being constructed.


METHODS
In this paper, the ways in which cultural assumptions and values have influenced the evolving concept of occupational identity are examined through applying Kluckhohn and Strodtbeck's framework of cultural variations in values to two contemporary conceptualisations of occupational identity.


RESULTS
The analysis demonstrates the ways in which values most consistent with Western culture are embedded within and dominate these contemporary conceptualisations of occupational identity, emphasising a future orientation, achievement-based doing, individual choice, and mastery of individuals over nature.


CONCLUSIONS
This paper points to conceptual boundaries within which occupational identity is currently being shaped and points to alternative possibilities in the hope of prompting dialogue and research that looks at this concept in more diverse ways. Heightened sensitivity to the influence of culture on the shaping of occupation-focussed knowledge will serve to strengthen and enrich the growth of the evolving body of knowledge pertaining to occupation, and foster culturally sensitive research and practice.
Rudman
Deborah Laliberte
DL
School of Occupational Therapy, Elborn College, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. drudman@uwo.ca
Dennhardt
Silke
S
D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D006801:Humans; D007062:Identification, Psychological; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009790:Occupations; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012649:Self Concept; D012931:Social Environment; D012933:Social Identification; D012938:Social Perception; D012945:Social Values; D014937:Work / Q000523:psychology