Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
46574775
Author
Shaw, Lynn Edith,1961-
Title
Understanding return to work : an exploratory study of the individual's perspective.
Degree
M. Sc. -- University of Western Ontario, 1998
Publisher
Ottawa : National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, [1999]
Description
2 microfiches.
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
Return to work is a complex issue that is poorly understood. This study sought to examine the workers' perspectives of their experiences in returning to or withdrawing from work after illness or injury. A qualitative research approach was used to understand return to work from the worker's perspective. This study explored both the experiences and perspectives of individuals regarding their health leaves from work and what they attributed to their return to work or their withdrawal from work. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven people. Seven of whom had returned to work and four who did not. The interviews were audio-taped, transcribed and analysed. The findings of this study showed that individual perceptions were important to the long term acceptance and belief of a person's fit or lack of fit for work. A variety of issues influenced an individual's perception and determination of their fit for work. The issues included the meaning of disability, the relevancy of returning to work, the actions of others, the external determination of work disability, societal views, and the fear of stigma associated with not working and having a disability. Additionally, return to work trajectories were identified. The composition of these trajectories involved self appraisal, reappraisal, exploration, acceptance, and the interplay of two constructs, i.e., the meaning of disability and return to work relevancy. The implications of these findings for the future study of return to work including occupational therapy practice and research are discussed.
ISBN
0612325067
9780612325067