Name a qualitative assessment approach used in occupational therapy.

The choice of interviews or narrative assessments as a qualitative assessment approach in occupational therapy is particularly significant. This method emphasizes gathering in-depth information about a client's experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Through interviews, therapists can explore participants’ personal narratives, contextual factors, and meaningful activities that contribute to their occupational performance.

Qualitative assessments allow for a deeper understanding of the client's perspective, which is essential in developing personalized treatment plans. The discussions facilitated during interviews often yield rich details that can highlight strengths, challenges, and individual values, allowing therapists to tailor their interventions more effectively.

In contrast, structured questionnaires and standardized testing focus primarily on quantifiable data and may not capture the nuanced experiences of clients. Observational assessments provide valuable information about performance in real-time but may lack the depth of personal insight that interviews provide. Therefore, interviews or narrative assessments stand out as a qualitative approach that can comprehensively address the complexities of a client’s occupational needs.