Sexuality Based Content in an Entry- Level Occupational Therapy Curriculum: A Content Analysis

Authors

Victoria E. Ontiberos, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Steven M. Gerardi, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Elizabeth DeLuca, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Sexuality is multifaceted and is developed across the lifespan. Researchers report little advancement, consistency, and knowledge regarding incorporation of sexuality into occupational therapy (OT) curricula, which supports the need for research. The purpose of this capstone project was two-fold: a) to conduct a content analysis of an entry-level OT curriculum to identify content gaps regarding addressing sexuality in practice; and b) to develop sexuality-based educational materials as a resource for the faculty for potential inclusion in future courses. The Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) is an evidenced-based model that was used in this project, in conjunction with notional sexuality educational standards, to frame the content analysis and develop sexuality-based materials. A curricular matrix was created to chart the extracted data based on the notional sexuality educational standards and constructs of MOHO. Results of this curricular analysis identified educational gaps within the OT curriculum. Of the 30 courses reviewed, 16 (53.33%) mentioned sexuality within online units, required readings, or assignments. However, 13 (43.3%) addressed sexuality only in passing, with no link to occupation. Required readings were noted as the most frequently used teaching method for sexuality content and the MOHO construct most frequently focused on was performance capacity. This indicates that although sexuality is mentioned throughout the OT curriculum, in most instances, it was not presented in depth. Based on analysis of findings, sexuality-based materials were created and implemented.

Publication Date

4-13-2022

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

occupational therapy, occupational therapy education, sexuality, content analysis, curricular analysis

Medical Subject Headings

Occupational Therapy, Curriculum, Sexuality, Education, Professional

Disciplines

Curriculum and Instruction | Higher Education | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 12-14, 2022.

Recommended Citation

Ontiberos, V. E., Gerardi, S. M., & DeLuca, E. (2022, April 13). Sexuality Based Content in an Entry- Level Occupational Therapy Curriculum: A Content Analysis. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstones-spring2022/30