Dynamic Model of Occupation-Based Practice (DMOBP)

The model explains the ever-changing state of therapeutic interactions along a continuum between a discrete model and occupation-based practice. Occupation-based practice is defined as the use of occupation in assessment and therapeutic intervention approach working toward occupational outcomes. In contrast, discrete models are measurement and intervention approaches that follow an agenda other than health through occupation and could be recognized as a medical, educational, psychological perspectives. The reciprocally beneficial relationship between occupational engagement and health is foundational to the model and supports the need for the therapeutic use of occupation. This model can help therapists recognize the occupational nature of their practice and the influences that support or hinder their use of occupation in practice. The DMOBP identifies four major influences on the inclusion of occupation in practice as systems (i.e., documentation, administrative support, etc.), physical environment (i.e., space, materials and assessment tools, etc.), therapist (i.e., education and training, experience or belief in occupation, etc.), and client (i.e., acuity level, expectations, etc.). The model further distinguishes the four constructs of occupation-based practice as authentic occupation, meaningful and purposeful value, therapeutic intent, and engaged participation. Each therapeutic interaction exists along the continuum of occupation-based practice and is determined by the practice influences and presence/absence of the four constructs. The Occupation-Based Practice Assessment is a correlating measurement tool based on the model allowing therapists to assess their practice.