Title

Occupational Therapy Students' Development of Therapeutic Communication Skills During a Service-Learning Experience

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2013

Publication Title

Occupational Therapy in Mental Health

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the effect community-based service-learning experiences had upon occupational therapy students' therapeutic communication skills and their application of theoretical concepts. After their semester-long course was completed, six students de-identified and voluntarily submitted their weekly reflective journals for retrospective analysis in accordance with Giorgi's strategies (1985, 1997). Two analysts identified eight themes: developing trust, establishing boundaries, communication, client-centered care, breakdown of preconceptions, increased self-awareness, power of pride, and power of occupation. Educators are urged to use service-learning experiences to facilitate student interpersonal skill development and integration of theoretical knowledge.

DOI

10.1080/0164212X.2013.760288

Student Publication

This item is part of the McNair Scholars Program.

Volume

29

Issue

1

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