ABSTRACT

Objective : The purpose of this study is to understand the meaning of clinical experience for novice pediatric occupational therapists and to comprehend its adaptive strategies. Methods : A phenomenological approach for qualitative research was adopted for this study. The participants were 5 pediatric occupational therapists that had 10 to 11 months of experience. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and e-mail. The interviews were recoded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Results : Five themes emerged form the interview data. The themes were as follows: 1) Expectations regarding pediatric occupational therapy: selection and expectations regarding pediatric occupational therapy. 2) A shortage of competence: uncertainty and a lack of confidence regarding intervention. 3) Emotions toward the organization: satisfaction and dissatisfaction regarding the organization, relational skills with therapists, and job dissatisfaction. 4) Fervent desire about education: recognition regarding education and method of education. 5) Adaptive strategy: adaptive strategy for professional and personal lives. Conclusion : This study was conducted to comprehend the experience process of novice pediatric occupational therapists. The results will assist in the development of an educational curriculum, and clinical support to help in the adaptation of novice pediatric occupational therapists.