Occupational therapy has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century.
In the early years of occupational therapy, when the profession was just beginning to emerge, it was common for occupational therapists to use basket weaving as a therapeutic activity.
Basket weaving was seen as a valuable therapeutic activity for several reasons. Firstly, it was a form of handcraft that could be used to help patients develop fine motor skills and dexterity. Secondly, it was a way to help patients feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work, which could be important for their mental health and well-being.
Over time, the term "basket weaver" became a slang term used to refer to occupational therapists. The term was sometimes used in a derogatory way, suggesting that occupational therapists were only interested in engaging patients in therapeutic crafts like basket weaving, rather than providing more "serious" medical interventions.
It's important to note that occupational therapy has evolved significantly over the years, and today, occupational therapists work in a wide range of settings and use a variety of interventions to help patients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
While basket weaving may still be used as a therapeutic activity in some cases, it is just one of many tools that occupational therapists have at their disposal to help patients achieve their goals.
Here are some references that discuss the history of occupational therapy and the use of basket weaving as a therapeutic activity:
"The evolution of occupational therapy in the United States" by Leland and Kielhofner:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2930182/
"Occupational Therapy and Vocational Rehabilitation" by Stoffel and Kinsella:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6048543/
"Occupational Therapy's Role in Mental Health Promotion, Prevention, & Intervention With Children & Youth" by American Occupational Therapy Association:
https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1890153
"The Therapeutic Use of Handicrafts" by Goldstein and Cohn:
https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=2030684
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