There seems to be a definite trend, among the general population, that many people are unsure or even unaware entirely as to what the field of occupational therapy actually is. Some degree of confusion appears to stem from what the term ‘occupation’ means, which consequently, coupled with unfamiliarity with the profession, results in a general misconception of the field occupational therapy. Occupation is defined as an “activity in which one engages” and occupational therapy can be defined as “a practice that uses goal-directed activity to promote independence in function” (Jane Clifford O'Brien, Susan M. Hussey, 2007). Occupational can also be defined as “everything people do to occupy themselves, including looking after themselves (self-care), …show more content…
Phillipe Pinel is one example of this; in 1793 began to advocate on behalf of individuals with mental illnesses after seeing their atrocious treatment and initiated the “moral treatment and occupation approach” that revolutionized their treatment so that it “became based on purposeful daily activities” (Michelle). During this time, William Turk, who also began to work among people with mental illness, joined this line of thought and expanded it so as to believe that “occupations, religion (which helped bring in the concept of family), and purposeful activities should be prescribed in order to maximize function and minimize the symptoms of the patient's mental illness” together, though their efforts required much effort, creativity, and passion, they were able make a huge breakthrough for the field of occupational therapy, but also made an immeasurable impact on the lives of those patients under their care (Michelle). Further examples include Dr. William Rush Dunton Jr. who used quilt making, Phillip Pinal who implemented craft shops, recreational areas, and gardens, and Dr. Herbert Hall who used arts and crafts to test their therapeutic effects (History of Occupational Therapy). From the men and women of occupational therapy’s past, one can learn that creativity, leadership, and audacity are vital parts of successful occupational therapy practice, and that the practitioner must be willing to stand up for their patients or clients, especially those that do not have power or a voice. The field of occupational therapy, more so than many fields, has opportunities every day to think outside the box in order to advocate for and implement individualized, meaningful rehabilitation that works when other health fields fall short, and thus it is their responsibility to make the most of every opportunity. This