Experiences of LGBTQ+ Occupational Therapy Practitioners
Within Work-related Occupations: A Reflective Thematic Analysis Approach
Authors:
Temor “Tay” Amin-Arsala, OT, OTD, OTR; Meredith Grinnell, OT, OTD, OTR; Mary Barnes, OT, OTD, OTR, FAOTA
Abstract:
The objective of the study is to identify themes in the experiences of LGBTQIA+ OTPs in the workplace. Twelve LGBTQIA+ OTPs shared their workplace experiences as sexual- and gender-minority individuals via semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) yielded three themes across the narratives: Bias and Discrimination as a Gradient of Experiences, Queering the Crossroads of Role and Identity, and A Mosaic of Inclusion. LGBTQIA+ OTPs share many of the same experiences described by other LGBTQIA+ healthcare providers: continued discrimination and bias is impactful and ranges from subtle to blatant, benchmarks of inclusive practices differ from practitioner-to-practitioner, and holding an LGBTQIA+ identity impacts one’s role and practice as an OTP.
Key Words:
LGBTQIA, OTP, Workplace