Which concept is central to the occupational therapy framework?

The concept of "occupation" is fundamental to the occupational therapy framework because it encompasses the various activities that individuals engage in as part of their daily lives. This includes everyday tasks such as self-care, work, leisure, and social interaction, all of which contribute to a person's identity and overall well-being. Occupational therapy focuses on enabling people to participate in meaningful activities that they find important, which aligns with the goal of enhancing their quality of life and promoting independence.

Understanding occupation as a central concept allows occupational therapists to assess and address the specific needs of clients, tailoring individualized interventions that foster engagement in meaningful activities. This approach acknowledges that by improving one's ability to perform favored occupations, therapists can support psychosocial health and facilitate positive changes in everyday functioning. Hence, the emphasis on occupation directly shapes therapeutic practice and underpins the entire framework of occupational therapy.