A consensus definition of occupation-based intervention from a Malaysian perspective: A Delphi study

Introduction Descriptions and definitions for occupation-based intervention vary in the literature. Occupation-based intervention is assumed to be based on occupation and is seen as both a means and an end. Occupation-based intervention also includes all levels of interventions in occupational therapy as long as the goal is occupational performance. Occupation-based intervention can also be described as a therapeutic process that emerges during the therapy session. The purpose of this study was to achieve a consensus definition of occupation-based intervention among Malaysian occupational therapists. Method A three-round Delphi technique using a sequential questionnaire was conducted. Fifteen occupational therapists and occupational therapy educators completed all rounds. The Delphi process began with open-ended questions, asking the participants some questions about occupation-based intervention. The second and third rounds asked participants to rank their agreement with statements about occupation-based intervention. Results Occupation-based intervention is seen by therapists to be both a means and an end, with occupational performance as the main outcome. It is believed that using occupation alone is not enough; preparatory and purposeful methods may have to be incorporated to achieve the outcomes. Conclusion It is important to adopt a common definition of occupation-based intervention in practice and education to signify occupation at the centre of occupational therapy.