Occupational Therapy
6 researchers across 3 institutions
Occupational therapy research investigates how people engage in meaningful daily activities, known as occupations. This research explores factors that enable or hinder participation in these occupations, particularly for individuals facing health challenges, disabilities, or life transitions. Methodologies include qualitative studies exploring lived experiences, quantitative analyses of intervention effectiveness, and the development and validation of assessment tools. Areas of focus include rehabilitation for neurological conditions, strategies for aging in place, pediatric interventions, mental health support, and the impact of assistive technologies.
In Arkansas, occupational therapy research addresses key state demographics and health needs. This includes developing and evaluating interventions for rural populations with limited access to services, supporting individuals with chronic conditions prevalent in the state, and enhancing the capacity of communities to support older adults and individuals with disabilities. Research also examines the role of occupation in promoting well-being within diverse Arkansas communities and workplaces, contributing to workforce development and public health initiatives.
This research area engages with behavioral health, health sciences, and neurological disorders. Interdisciplinary collaborations extend across multiple Arkansas higher education institutions, fostering a broad base of expertise in improving health and quality of life through occupation.
Top Researchers
| Name | Institution | h-index | Citations | Career Stage | Badges |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| John V. Rider | University of Arkansas | 8 | 235 | ||
| Steven Wheeler | University of Arkansas | 7 | 169 | ||
| Lorrie George-Paschal | University of Central Arkansas | 6 | 126 | ||
| Bernard Austin Kigunda Muriithi | University of Arkansas | 3 | 83 | ||
| GLENDA HUX | UAMS | 0 | 0 | ||
| Jeanne Eichler | UAMS | 0 | 0 |
Related Research Areas
Strategic Outlook
Global signals from OpenAlex for this research area: where the field is growing, how concentrated leadership is, and where Arkansas sits relative to the world's top-100 institutions. Descriptive only — surfaced as input to the conversation about where to place bets, not a recommendation. Signal confidence: LOW
Top US institutions in this area
- 1 University of Southern California 415
- 2 University of Illinois Chicago 381
- 3 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 365
- 4 Boston University 317
- 5 Washington University in St. Louis 309