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.
Recommended Citation
Maloney, S. M., & Griffith, K. (2013). Occupational therapy students' development of therapeutic communication skills during a service-learning experience. Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, 29(1), 10-26. doi:10.1080/0164212X.2013.760288
Volume
29
Issue
1
