The relationship between pretheoretical assumptions and clinical reasoning.

Abstract

This single-case study explored what internal beliefs or commitments one therapist holds about the nature of reality and how those beliefs influence her delivery of occupational therapy services. Data were collected through three in-depth interviews and through observation of the therapist conducting treatment sessions. Results suggest that the therapist's view of reality can be categorized into four areas: (a) what she believes about ultimate reality; (b) what she believes about life, death, and eternity; (c) what she believes about human nature; and (d) what she believes about the nature of knowing. The findings also suggest that this core worldview informs how the therapist frames clinical practice and how she delivers occupational therapy services. Further, both the therapist's view of reality and her clinical practice are deeply rooted in her sociocultural experiences. This case study provides a rich description of the interrelatedness of sociocultural context, worldview, and clinical reasoning.