ORCID

Abstract

Service Users’ lived experiences of sensory processing, occupation and forensic mental healthABSTRACTBackgroundSensory processing is a universal dynamic mind-body process which all individuals experience, is influenced by the environment and will impact participation in occupations.Forensic mental health service users are encouraged to participate in occupationally enriching opportunities, for safe community reintegration. Emerging evidence indicates links between sensory processing and mental health, but with limited guidance on how this translates into occupationally focused practice in a secure setting.AimThis PhD research explored the lived-experiences of five service users in relation to sensory processing and its influence on their occupational participation.MethodPhenomenology was used to explore sensory processing and occupational participation, using semi-structured interviews which were reflexively thematically analysed. A hermeneutic circle was then used to construct meaning.FindingsThis study constructed the following four meanings: ‘Activity opportunities are important’, ‘Rules prevail’, ‘Complex and different environments’ and ‘Kindness matters’.Implications for practiceTo improve the future quality of services in these settings, sensory processing needs to be holistically incorporated into occupation-focused practice. Recommendations include: assess and improve the sensory environment, redesign activity pathways to increase occupation opportunities, incorporate service user and staff collaborative redesign suggestions.KEYWORDSoccupational justice, inclusion, mental health conditionsTOPICS• Mental Health• Occupation Focused Research and Research Methods• Student Research

Publication Date

2024-10-12

Publication Title

Occupational Therapy Europe Foundation and the Polish Occupational Therapy Association

ISBN

978-83-970803-0-0

Acceptance Date

2024-03-08

Deposit Date

2025-04-17

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