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Occupational Functioning (occupational + functioning)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Psychology	50%
Medical Sciences	50%

Selected Abstracts

Paruresis (Psychogenic Inhibition of Micturition): cognitive behavioral formulation and treatment

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 11 2008
Mark J. Boschen Ph.D.
Abstract Paruresis is a condition characterized by difficulty or inability to urinate in situations where others are present, or may soon be present. Despite knowledge that paruresis can significantly impact on occupational functioning, social functioning, and quality of life, there exists a paucity of research into effective treatments. Although cognitive conceptualizations have been advanced for other anxiety disorders, there has not been a comprehensive cognitive behavioral model of paruresis. This article presents a revised cognitive and behavioral conceptualization of paruresis, drawing on empirical evidence from other anxiety disorders. Using this conceptualization, a cognitive-behavioral intervention strategy is outlined, with clear targets for cognitive and behavioral strategies. Depression and Anxiety, 2008. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Anabolic,androgenic steroid dependence: an emerging disorder

ADDICTION, Issue 12 2009
Gen Kanayama
ABSTRACT Aims Anabolic,androgenic steroids (AAS) are widely used illicitly to gain muscle and lose body fat. Here we review the accumulating human and animal evidence showing that AAS may cause a distinct dependence syndrome, often associated with adverse psychiatric and medical effects. Method We present an illustrative case of AAS dependence, followed by a summary of the human and animal literature on this topic, based on publications known to us or obtained by searching the PubMed database. Results About 30% of AAS users appear to develop a dependence syndrome, characterized by chronic AAS use despite adverse effects on physical, psychosocial or occupational functioning. AAS dependence shares many features with classical drug dependence. For example, hamsters will self-administer AAS, even to the point of death, and both humans and animals exhibit a well-documented AAS withdrawal syndrome, mediated by neuroendocrine and cortical neurotransmitter systems. AAS dependence may particularly involve opioidergic mechanisms. However, AAS differ from classical drugs in that they produce little immediate reward of acute intoxication, but instead a delayed effect of muscle gains. Thus standard diagnostic criteria for substance dependence, usually crafted for acutely intoxicating drugs, must be adapted slightly for cumulatively acting drugs such as AAS. Conclusions AAS dependence is a valid diagnostic entity, and probably a growing public health problem. AAS dependence may share brain mechanisms with other forms of substance dependence, especially opioid dependence. Future studies are needed to characterize AAS dependence more clearly, identify risk factors for this syndrome and develop treatment strategies. [source]

Disability and posttraumatic stress disorder in disaster relief workers responding to september 11, 2001 World Trade Center Disaster

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 7 2009
Susan Evans
Abstract Empirical evidence suggests that social and occupational disability plays a significant role in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this study was to assess the role of social/occupational disability and to identify predictors of the development of PTSD in a group of disaster relief workers (DRWs) who had been deployed to the World Trade Center (WTC) following September 11, 2001. Eight hundred forty-two utility workers completed a battery of comprehensive tests measuring PTSD and social occupational functioning. Results indicated a significant association between PTSD symptoms and impaired social/occupational functioning. Symptomatic workers were also more likely to have a history of trauma, panic disorder, and depression. Those with a history of trauma, depression, generalized anxiety disorder or panic reported significantly more disability than those without a psychiatric history. Careful screening of PTSD and social/occupational functioning in DRWs following a disaster is warranted so that early treatment can be undertaken to prevent a chronic and disabling course. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1,11, 2009. [source]

The impact of crime victimization on quality of life

JOURNAL OF TRAUMATIC STRESS, Issue 2 2010
Rochelle F. Hanson
The authors review the extant literature examining the functional impact of crime victimization on indices of quality of life. They present findings within a conceptual framework comprised of role functioning, life satisfaction, and well-being, and social,material conditions, including crime-related medical, mental health, and employer costs, and health care utilization. The review indicates that crime victimization impacts multiple domains, including parenting skills, impaired occupational functioning, higher rates of unemployment, and problematic intimate relationships. However, data on relationships between crime victimization and overall life satisfaction were mixed, suggesting the need for further investigation. The authors conclude with a brief discussion of directions for future research. [source]

Application of the occupational adaptation framework in child and adolescent occupational therapy practice.

AUSTRALIAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2007
A case study
Background:,The occupational adaptation frame of reference asserts that a person's occupational functioning may be improved through positive changes in his/her adaptive processes. This framework's authors advocate that occupational adaptation theory can be applied to practice with clients of all ages (Schultz & Schkade, 1992). Published literature to date has been focused on the application of this framework with adults and adolescents. Method:,This paper reviews the major theoretical constructs and guide to practice of occupational adaptation theory whilst interweaving descriptions of its application to a paediatric case study conducted within a child and adolescent mental health unit. Conclusion:,While it was shown through the case study that the occupational adaptation frame of reference can guide occupational therapy practice with a child nearing adolescence critical reflections about the experience suggest some challenges for the practitioner and students. [source]