Untangling Occupation and Activity

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Introduction: For the purpose of this assignment, I had to interview a classmate who shared a similar interest with me. I interviewed Justine* and the similar interest we share is kayaking. In this report, I will discuss the findings from this interview. I will compare and contrast our experiences, and by doing this will untangle the differences between the theoretical concepts of occupation and activity. I will conclude by discussing what I have learned, and how I can relate this, both to my future studies and in my career as an occupational therapist. Justine’s experience: Justine goes to Achill Island on holiday every summer with her family. A tradition in her family is for Justine and her father to go kayaking together. They kayak in the sea, and usually in the morning. She told me that her experience of kayaking with her father is a very personal one, as it allows to spend quality time together. This is a time where they have in depth and meaningful conversations. It gives them time to bond. Justine’s father works away from home. This whole experience allows her to relax, unwind and connect with her father. For Justine, “Occupations tend to be special when they happen infrequently and carry symbolic meanings such as representing achievement of adulthood or one’s love for family”. Dickie, V. (2009, p.15). This is her own unique one-time experience of kayaking. My own experience: I also enjoy Kayaking. I Kayak regularly in the sea in front of my house. I usually do it in the evening time after work. I do it to keep fit, and also as a way to relax and unwind. I usually do it by myself. To me it is a simple pleasure, which helps me to refresh my mind and admire the tranquillity of my surroundings. It is a way for me to escape and spend time with my own thoughts and rejuvenate my mind. This is my own unique, one-time experience of kayaking. Comparing and

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