Factors influencing the six therapeutic communication modes among occupational therapists

Abstract

This cross-sectional study describes the perceived use of six therapeutic communication modes among occupational therapists in Korea per the intentional relationship model and explores the factors influencing mode use. We conducted a paper-and-pencil survey with a convenience sampling method and analyzed a total of 214 responses (response rate: 64.88%) using the Vocational Self-Efficacy Scale and the Clinical Assessment of Modes-Therapist ([CAM-T] Korean). Therapists reported that they used five of the six therapeutic communication modes with similar frequency and that they used the advocating mode least frequently. A multiple regression model comprising the three subscales of vocational self-efficacy-practice setting, therapists" perception of client satisfaction, and satisfaction level on therapeutic performance-predicted the CAM-T total score of F (7, 205)=16.34, p<.0005, and adjusted R²=.336. The strongest predictors across the six therapeutic modes were factors that pertained to perceptions of the therapeutic relationship. These findings suggest that efficacy-building efforts on individual confidence and collective efficacy, along with education for therapeutic relationships, are required to foster effective use of interpersonal skills.