The attitudes, knowledge and practices of occupational therapists addressing sexuality related issues in an adult physical setting

Abstract

Introduction: Sexuality is considered to be one of the activities of daily living. Engaging in this occupation can contribute to an individual’s health and well-being. Occupational therapists, together with other health care professionals, acknowledge the importance of sexuality, however this area is not routinely addressed in their practice. The aim of this study was to address a research gap about the current attitudes, knowledge and practices of occupational therapists in physical practice settings in Malta. Methods: This study used a quantitative approach to collect data. A cross-sectional survey design was selected. For this purpose, an online self-administered anonymous questionnaire was devised by the researcher and sent to the total population of occupational therapists working in different physical settings in Malta, via an intermediary selected by the Office of Prime Minister. A total of 76 occupational therapists practising in an Acute care, Rehabilitation, Long Term care, Oncology, and Residential and Community Care settings for at least 2 months prior to the study were invited to participate in order to gather data about their attitudes, knowledge and practices on sexuality-related issues. Findings: 32 occupational therapists participated in the research study, out of a total of 76 occupational therapists that at the time of study, worked in a physical setting. The response rate varied between physical settings. Occupational therapists agreed that sexuality is an important activity of daily living, and that they, alongside other healthcare professionals should address it in their practice. Sexuality is not routinely addressed during assessment and intervention. They also believe that sexuality should be discussed when the client mentions experiencing sexuality-related issues or when the therapists deem it is relevant. Knowledge levels about sexuality related areas vary, with the occupational therapists most often reporting being ‘slightly knowledgeable’ on the different aspects of sexuality. Discussion: Occupational therapists acknowledge the importance of sexuality and their contribution in addressing it in their practice even though it is not routinely addressed. There are varying levels of comfort in addressing sexuality with different client genders and background. Occupational therapists expressed a strong desire to receive further training on the area of sexuality, especially since this is not addressed in sufficient depth in undergraduate curriculum.