Occupation and Occupational Need

What is Occupation and why is it important?

Occupation is the engagement in, practicing or performing of a particular action or activity (Simpson & Weiner, 1989). Meaningful occupation is an essential part of human life. It provides a means for humans to learn basic skills needed for survival, find their identity within cultural groups and as indivduals, express themselves and build a sense of community and social standing.

Unruh (2004) observed that doing something purposeful is directly associated with the meaning of one's day and that engagement in occupations that are personally meaningful contributes to a sense of purpose. One of the fundamental beliefs of Occupational Therapists is that participation in meaningful occupation encourages health and wellbeing

(Wilcock, 2006). 

However, it is important to note that not all occupations are beneficial. Participation in  negative occupations, such as crime and destructive activities, can disrupt personal and community life. Additionally, when people try to engage in occupations which are beyond their capabilities this can result in frustration, anxiety and depression (Rebeiro & Polgar, 1998, cited in Radomski & Trombly-Latham, 2008, p. 341).

What is Occupational Need?

Occupational need is when an individual encounters difficulties engaging in their occupations of daily living. Being able to engage in occupations can be influenced by environmental factors (physical, cultural, social or institutional environments), opportunity, education and resources.

Occupational Need in Third World Countries:

Occupational need is evident in Third world countries as often individuals have reduced opportunities to obtain an education and work (fair pay). This leads to lack of quality of life, as these individuals continuously struggle to meet their basic human need (food, water, shelter) in order to survive. Often harsh environmental impacts, such as droughts, floods, and political upheaval have a large impact on individuals and communities livelihoods. Individuals with disability are often the worst hit, as they lack the ability to actively contribute in making 'ends meat' and rely on others to assist with their daily needs. 

How does the Western worlds' occupations differ to developing countries?

The occupations of the western world differ to those in developing countries. The majority of the western world has the money, education, freedom and opportunities that afford participation in a variety of occupations. For example, in New Zealand we have supports put in place to help us if we have an accident which affects our ability to contribute to society through employment (i.e. sickness benefit). Additionally, we have government supports, such as student loans and allowances, which encourages citizens to further their education. 

Many people within developed countries do not have the money, resources or freedom to carry out the occupations that the western world enjoys, such as leisure and recreational activities. The main occupations of those living in extreme poverty are centred around gaining the necessities of life, such as food, clean water, shelter and safety. 

 An interesting article http://beyondprofit.com/what%E2%80%99s-wrong-with-being-poor/

gives the opinion that; 

"Poverty may be more about exclusion from the rest of society, not about material deprivation. Being vulnerable and invisible. Facing discrimination and deprivation. Lacking the ability to live as a free and dignified human being with the full potential to achieve one’s desired goals in life. Living on the margins of society, unable to participate in social and political life. Lacking capabilities. Not being “part of the system.” When living “outside” of the system, how can the impoverished expect to rise within a society when the rest of society is “part of the system?” And unfortunately, being “part of the system” is a distant dream to many of the world’s poor".

 

 References:

Simpson, J. A. & Weiner, E. S. C. (1989). Oxford English dictionary (2nd ed., Vols 1-12). Oxford: Clarendon Press.

Trombly Latham, C. A.(Eds.). (2008). Occupational therapy for physical dysfunction. (6th ed.). Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Unruh, A. M. (2004). Reflections on: "So...what do you do?" Occupation and construction of identity.  The Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy [Electronic version]. 71(5), 290-295.

  

Wilcock, A. (2006). An occupational perspective on health. (2^nd ed.). Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.