Date of Award
Summer 8-14-2025
Document Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Steven M. Gerardi
Second Advisor
Eric Hicks
Medical Subject Headings
Eating disorders, Occupational therapy
Abstract
This capstone project addressed the critical need for a culturally responsive approach to occupational therapy in the treatment of African-American and Hispanic with eating disorders (EDs) in the United States. Although EDs impair physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning, these communities often encounter systemic barriers such as cultural stigma, food insecurity, and inadequate assessment tools rooted in Eurocentric norms—that contribute to underdiagnosis, limited access to care, and poorer outcomes. The central issue addressed was the absence of clear, culturally relevant guidance for occupational therapy practitioners working with these underserved populations. The project was informed by a comprehensive literature review and synthesis of occupational therapy theory, with particular emphasis on the Model of Human Occupation. The project described how cultural values, systemic racism, and socioeconomic disparities influence both the presentation and treatment of EDs within minority communities. The primary outcome of this project was the development of a culturally responsive occupational therapy treatment guide designed to assist occupational therapy practitioners in adapting their assessments, interventions, and outcome measures to better meet the needs of African-American and Hispanic clients. This guide aims to bridge a significant practice gap by promoting equitable, personalized, and effective care. The significance of this work lies in its potential to advance health equity and enhance the role of occupational therapy practitioners in ED treatment, ensuring that culturally marginalized groups receive competent, meaningful, and inclusive therapeutic support.
Recommended Citation
Cooper, D. N. (2025). Culturally Responsive Occupational Therapy Treatment Guide for African-American and Hispanic People With Eating Disorders. [Doctoral project, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences]. SOAR @ USA: Student Capstone Papers Collection. https://doi.org/10.46409/sr.KYSP9528
Included in
Health Services Research Commons, Medical Education Commons, Occupational Therapy Commons
Comments
Capstone project submitted to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Occupational Therapy.