Theoretical frameworks

Occupational Therapists use a number of theoretical frameworks with which to frame their practices. Note that terminology has differed between scholars. Theoretical bases for framing a human and their occupation being include the following:

Frames of reference and generic models[edit]Frames of reference or generic models are the overarching title given to a collation of compatible knowledge, research and theories that form conceptual practice.[54] More generally they can be defined as "those aspects which influence our perceptions, decisions and practice".[55]

Person Environment Occupation Performance Model
Occupational Therapy Intervention Process Model (OTIPM) (Anne Fisher and others)
Occupational Performance Process Model (OPPM)
Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) (Gary Kielhofner and others)
MOHO was first published in 1980. It explains how people select, organise and undertake occupations within their environment. The model is supported with evidence generated over thirty years and has been successfully applied throughout the world.[56]
Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E)
Occupational Performances Model - Australia (OPM-A) (Chris Chapparo & Judy Ranka)
The OPM(A) was conceptualized in 1986 with its current form launched in 2006. The OPM(A) illustrates the complexity of occupational performance, the scope of occupational therapy practice, and provides a framework for occupational therapy education.[57]
Kawa (River) Model (Michael Iwama)
Functional Group Model
Functional Information-Processing Model
Biomechanical Frame of Reference
The Biomechanical Frame of Reference is primarily concerned with motion during occupation. It is used with individuals who experience limitations in movement, inadequate muscle strength or loss of endurance in occupations. The Frame of Reference was not originally compiled by Occupational Therapists, and Therapists should translate it to the Occupational Therapy perspective,[58] to avoid the risk of movement or exercise becoming the main focus.[59]
Rehabilitative (compensatory)
Neurofunctional (Gordon Muir Giles and Clark-Wilson)
Cognitive Disabilities
Dynamic Systems Theory
Sensory Integration
Lifestyle Performance Model (Fidler)
Client-Centered Frame of Reference
This Frame of Reference is developed from the work of Carl Rogers. It views the client as the center of all therapeutic activity, and the client's needs and goals direct the delivery of the Occupational Therapy Process.[60]
Cognitive-Behavioural Frame of Reference
Psychodynamic Frame of Reference
Ecology of Human Performance Model
Recovery Models & Self-Management Models
Curtin pARTicipation Model
Knowledge Translation of Self-Management Models[61]
Life-Skills Tree Model[62]
Occupational Therapy - Mahidol Clinical System (OT-MCS) Model[63]