Occupational Therapists’ Perception of Factors Affecting Unethical Practice in the Field of Adult Physical Dysfunction

  Several factors lead to unethical functioning in occupational therapy. The aim of the present study was to explore factors affecting unethical performances at the clinical work of occupational therapists in the field of adult physical dysfunction.

A total of 10 graduated occupational therapists with at least two years of experience were selected using purposeful sampling method.  Data were gathered through semi-structured interview in private clinics and occupational therapy sections. Data were analyzed using content analysis approach.

Data analysis led to the emergence of two categories both of which represent the factors affecting unethical practice in the clinical work of occupational therapists in adult physical dysfunction field. These categories include: environmental factors and individual factors.

The findings of the present study showed that lack of awareness of occupational therapists regarding the principles of professional ethics related to occupational therapy and also the lack of comprehensive rules in this regard are important causes of the unethical practices by therapists. These important factors make the occupational therapists encounter numerous ethical problems related to the rights of clients during their clinical experiences and more research is needed in order to provide the necessary strategies for preventing and promoting the practice of professional ethics among occupational therapists.