Reminder!

SOTA meeting tomorrow!! EAC 400 at 3:00pm! Be there or miss out!

OTAC Conference 2009 in Sacramento

Experiences of students who attended the OTAC conference this year:

This year, the OTAC Conference took place in Sacramento. 9/11 students who attended drove 7 hours to partake in this event. This was their journey:

Kristin de Guzman

"The OTAC conference reminded me of how small, yet vast the OT world really is. In just two short days, I sat through short seminars which gave me many useful tools to add to my "OT Tool Box;" I attended an awards gala to witness first hand, the recognition of many OT greats who stand out in the field; and can now put a face to the name of several Eleanor Clarke Slagle lecturers and to important figures within the OT profession.

Despite the sleep-deprivation and wake-up calls at 6am, I am confident to say it was a very rich experience. It was defintely worth it and I hope that more students can experience the OTAC conference in 2010 in Pasadena. (Afterall, it IS free coffee and tea in the morning!) The OT world is your oyster- might as well make the most of it! "

Rose Robel

"OTAC provided a way for us to get outside of our normal school curricula and explore other opportunities occupational therapyhas to offer. It was nice to see OTs in practice reinforce topics that we learn about in school. The OTAC coordinators and members were so welcoming! Most of all I loved the time spent with our classmates: getting to know them, venturing out in Sacramento, and building memories. "

Priya Sadarangani

" Attending OTAC was a new experience for me. I enjoyed meeting experienced occupational therapist as well as forming deeper and meaningful friendships with some of my classmates. I would like to give a special thanks to Debbie Wasserman, the OTAC coordinator, who was not only a pleasure to talk to but a really helpful person. I would also like to thank Irina Silchuk and her family for opening up her home to us to stay at and everyday having a buffet for us. "

Karen Celeste

"The OTAC Conference was a great experience. I got to hear some amazing seminars by current OTs out in the field. I also had the opportunity to meet the current AOTA present Penny Moyers. I am looking forward to the OTAC Conference in 2010, which will be held in PASADENA. The conference allows students to attend seminars and learn more about the current OT world and the health care system. Seminars pertained to population (pediatrics, adult, etc) and/or specialties (hand therapy, school based, advocacy, etc). There were also opportunities for advocacy, networking, and ways to support OT services. I suggest students to attend the expo to learn about the many job opportunities available out in California. Special thanks to Debbie Wasserman for helping 11 CSUDH students! Overall, it was an awesome trip!"

CRUISE INFO SUMMER MAY WON !!

WE HAVE THREE OPTIONS (based on departure date):

***You are welcome to bring a friend or two or more to the cruise. The more the merrier!***

3 Night Cruise $239-259 inside/$289-308 oceanview

Ports of Call: Long Beach (Los Angeles), California; Ensenada, Mexico; Long Beach (Los Angeles), California

Departure Date(s) 2010 May 7, 14, 21

or

4 Night Cruise $224 inside/$264 oceanview

Ports of Call: Long Beach (Los Angeles), California; Catalina Island, California; Ensenada, Mexico; Long Beach (Los Angeles), California

Departure Date(s) 2010 May 24

or

4 Night Cruise $204-279 inside/$244-334 oceanview

Ports of Call: Long Beach (Los Angeles), California; Catalina Island, California; Ensenada, Mexico; Long Beach (Los Angeles), California

Departure Date(s) 2010 May 3, 10, 17, 31

Look for the sign up sheet in EAC-400. I will leave it up there til Dec or Jan.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

I wanted to thank everyone who came out and volunteered at the Spinal Cord Injury Games at Rancho Los Amigos & at the SOTA Yard Sale the first weekend of October!!!

Upcoming volunteer opportunities!

City of Whittier Therapeutics Halloween Dance

The address is:

Community Center
7630 Washington Avenue
Whittier, CA 90602
(562)464-4430

Here is the actual information that is posted on the city website (cityofwhittier.org):

Annual Halloween Costume Party and Dance
The annual Halloween celebration features dancing, games, contests and refreshments for persons of all ages and disabilities. Family and friends are also welcome. This year's Dance will be at the Community Center on Saturday, October 24, 2009, volunteers are needed from 5 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Walk for Autism in Anaheim

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2009

Location:
Angel Stadium of Anaheim
2000 Gene Autry Way
Anaheim, CA 92806

Registration opens: 8:00AM
Walk Start: 9:30AM

We are planning to volunteer as a team:

Please register online and include our team name so we can all be put around the same area.

Team Name: CSUDH OTS TOROS

https://www.kintera.org/faf/volunteerRegNew/participantGen.asp?ievent=304374&lis=1&kntae304374=AF015352BDF248CFA37D12E1771A287C

SOTA presents A Mexican Getaway!

SOTA is planning a Mexican Cruise Getaway

Time to kick up your feet, unwind, and relax (with a margarita on hand).

3-4 night cruise leaving LA or LB Port. Price ranges btw $170-300.

Spring break is at the high end of the price range. Depending on when our spring break falls, it can be as low as $220, but still an amazing price for a student on a budget, who just wants to get away & have some fun!

All the food you can eat, plus a semi/formal dinner every night included, for Free!

Yes, free, as in no extra charge, a struggling poor students favorite word- FREE!

Beach it, Photo it, Show it, Eat it, Drink it, Scuba it, Hike it, Shop it, Try it, Love it!

(Vote on which school break you prefer to cruise on out. Once the voting poll is closed, details, price and sign up sheet will be posted up in EAC-400.)

RUBIOS FUNDRAISER!!

YOU. FOOD. FUNDRAISER. YUM!!!

Go to RUBIOS tomorrow to grub and help support SOTA!!

25366 Crenshaw Blvd.

Torrance, CA 90505

http://www.rubios.com/menu

They're open til 9pm!!

PLEASE PRESENT FLIER!!

SOTA THANKS YOU!!

Sept SOTA Meeting

Please join us and welcome in some undergrads interested in learning more about occupational therapy! Also, Q&A with Terry about Home Health & Hand Therapy.
Sept 24, 2009 5pm (Room TBD)

Dont forget to:

• Sign up to volunteer for the Spinal Cord Injury Games (in EAC-400 bulletin)
• Place orders for class picture $3 1-5x7 or $5 2-5x7 (in Eac-400 bulletin)
• Bring in items for the yard sale Oct 3 (Sat) in Fountain Valley (drop off box in Eac-400)
• Let me know if you are interested in going to OTAC Conference Oct 23-25

Special kudos to everyone who volunteered and supported us during Welcome Week!

Which OT shirt would you rock?

And the winner is: EAT, SLEEP, OT.

Thanks for voting!

Watch out for the tshirt sale =)

Followed by OT Dance/OT (student), OT > PT, & OT-oros.

Hello All ! 

Welcome everyone to the first week of the fall semester. SOTA is organizing a yard sale to raise funds and to reach my personal goal of $2,000 for the year of my term. Last year's cohort ran two yard sales and raised about $450 for each sale. We are looking to beat that with your help! Donations to our yard sale would be greatly appreciated. It's just a month away so please keep that in mind if you're planning to donate any used, old, and new items away. SOTA will take your junk and turn it into another man's treasure! 

Donating options:

• I will gladly arrange to pick up your donations.
• There is a drop box conveniently located in EAC400.
• You may drop off your donations at the yard sale on Sat. Oct. 3.

%100 of the funds raised will go towards the SOTA Organization such as:

·Graduation Banquet- Class gifts, flowers, food, decorations, etc.

·Cohort 6, Class of 2012 orientation
·Engraved Cohort Picture
·Scholarships! 
·Send a CSUDH representative to the AOTA, OTAC and/or Conclave conferences

· Future events: Such as a Social Mixer with other OT programs (i.e., USC, Loma Linda, and Santa Ana College)
· And much much more!!

If you have any questions I will be glad to answer them! Thank you for your support!

Yours,
Tricia 
SOTA Secretary 

Fundraisers may also be reached:
Stephanie Farrell & Kirsten Warner

News & Events (Aug. 14, 2009)

Hello Cohort 5,

Congratulations to your new PTE officers:

President: Lacy Wright

Vice-President: Anna Sebald

Secretary: Sarah Harman

Treasurer: Artesja Golembiewki

Public Relation: Laura Miller

Here are some news & upcoming events:

• Parking Info: No parking permits will be required in all lots starting Monday August 24, 2009 Thru Saturday September 5, 2009.
• Volunteers needed for Welcome Week Booth Sept. 8-10 from 11am-3pm (We need 2 people on Tue from 11am-1pm). Bring awareness about the MSOT program on campus! Feel free to stop by our table at Loker.
• Backpack Awareness Week: Volunteers needed to do a short presentation on backpack ergonomics anytime btw Sept 14-18. You can pick groups/time/date and be as creative as possible. This is a great way to apply some of the OT knowledge we have learned, represent the OT profession, as well as give back to the community!
• Fundraising Yard Sale: Oct. 3, 2009 in Fountain Valley (Thanks to Tricia). Please drop off items in EAC-400.
• Cohort 5 pictures will be on display the first week of Fall semester. To order, please see Sonia Medina. (Thanks Sonia and to those who came out!)
• PTE: Please support PTE with Ralphs! Its quick and simple. Enroll your card at: http://www.ralphs.com/myralphs/703/Pages/community_contribution.aspx PTE Code: 90353. If you forgot your card number please call: 800-660-9003. Its a great way to save and support PTE! Any questions please contact Artesja Golembiewki. 
• Next SOTA meeting in September (TBD): Will have Q&A with a Home Health and Hand Therapist OT. (Thanks to Diane for talking to us about Mental Health Setting!)
• Shirt Contest: Voting Soon! (TBD)
  
• Car wash & restaurant fundraising (TBD) in the Fall
  

OTAC events:

• Terry Peralta's Afternoon Tea with a Scholar, Sept 20th (Sun) at 11am-2pm at USC. Deadline to register is on Sept. 11. OTAC OTS member: $10; non-members are welcome to come for a slightly higher fee.
• OTAC conference Oct 23-25 in Sacramento: Student discounts are OTS free on Fri; OTAC OTS member: $99 sat, $99 sun. OTS non-members add $50. We plan to get a group to come for Fri and Sat. If you are interested in going please contact Karen Celeste. Leaving Thur night, coming back sun... hotel/transportation will be split btw interested parties. Tons of seminars (NBCOT, COT), research presentations, and of course Networking!!!

Other Events in the Greater Los Angeles Area:

• CART @ Rancho Los Amigos is hosting a workshop titled A Team Approach to AT Evaluation and Intervention, on Wednesday October 7 4-7:30 pm  www.rancho.org/cart 
  
• Rancho Los Amigos Spinal Cord Injury Games  Volunteers needed on Fri. Oct 2.
  

Lets not forget our end of summer Beach Day-Bonfire/Potluck on Aug. 21, 2009 at Dockweiller Beach!!! Hope you have an awesome and relaxing summer break!

Thanks so much,

Karen Celeste

SOTA PR

SOTA MEETING (AUG. 13, THUR)

Please come join us for:

• Q&A: Mental Health Setting
• Volunteer opportunities
• Discussing upcoming social & fundraising events
• Playing Games
• Raffle prizes
• And Happy Hour to follow right after!

Dont forget: Terry Peralta's Seminar on Sept 20, 2009. Registration ends SEPT 11.  (OTAC: http://www.otaconline.org/Content/ContentFolders/Regions2/Region2/AfternoonTea2009.pdf)

Hope to see you all there!

Karen Celeste

SOTA PR

SOTA 2009-2010: New Officers

President: Kristin de Guzman

Vice President: Rose Robel

Treasurer: Amy Burns

Secretary: Tricia Dinh

Public Relation: Karen Celeste

Social: Sonal Dhanak

Community Service: Tarra Provisor

Fundraising: Kirsten Warner & Stephanie Farrell

Class Liason: Ashley Dean

ASD Delegate: Steven Oliver

Historian: Sonia Medina & Erick Estrada

Snack Shop: Fiona Cheng & Monica Garcia

Newsletter: Sheila Forsander

Some of you are probably wondering 

WHERE DO MEMBERSHIP FEES GO TO???

Funds raised in SOTA help pay for:

• The Graduation Banquet- Class gifts, flowers, food, decorations, etc.
  
• Cohort 6 orientation
• Engraved Cohort Picture (seen in the dept office)
  
• Raffles (A chance to win every meeting!)
  
• Scholarships! 
• Bring a CSUDH representative to AOTA conference
• Food & Refreshments during our meetings
  
• Future events: Such as a Social Mixer with other OT programs & Summer bonfire!
  
• PLUS MUCH MORE!!!

Funds create opportunities for students to network and develop professionally. 

New picture gallery: flickr.com/groups/csudhsotac5

Please come out and support us in some of our future events: (Dates TBD)

Terry Peralta's Seminar Sept (*Note- this is not a SOTA event, rather an OTAC event, but come support one of our faculty.)

Social

• Mixer with other OT/OTA programs (USC, Loma Linda & SAC)  
  
• Summer Bonfire (Aug)
  

Fundraising

• Bake Sale
  
• Yard/Garage Sale
  
• Book rental with PTE (Jan)
  

Community Service Opportunity

• Upward Bound (Sept)

Public Relations

• Welcome Week Booth (Fall)
• Backpack Awareness Day (Sept)
• CSUDH Undergrad/Pre-OT Mentorship
• Professional Development 
• OT awareness - AOTA, OTAC & community event updates

We welcome suggestions or NEW ideas to help make YOUR experience here better! 

If you would like to volunteer or learn more about our events, please let me know.

Thanks so much,

Karen Celeste

SOTA PR

SOTA Newsletter Editor's Log

Welcome back for Summer semester! It'll be a memorable semester for both cohorts involved. Cohort 5 will be introduced to the conditions class and fieldwork I experience. You will all get to revisit how it is to be an adolescent and how your formative years may have affected you as an adult. It'll be the start of your self-reflection and your journey hopefully to self-discovery as an OT. As for Cohort 4, it'll be our last semester on campus and off we go to do our Fieldwork II. It will be the start of serious mental, physical, and emotional challenges that we will be facing in the OT settings that we were assigned to.

As a farewell from the newsletter, I will be posting my last couple of articles as the SOTA newsletter editor. Hopefully it will be interesting, fun, and helpful to you, Cohort 5. I will have something for cohort 4 as well which hopefully you will consider as fun and interesting as well.
All the time that I have spent with the newsletter was well worth it as I have met amazing OTs and colleagues through trying to come up with articles every semester. I have learned a lot through this experience and hopefully the next SOTA newsletter editors will as well.

To all the people who have supported the newsletter and even those who just snuck a peek at it, I truly appreciate it and thank you for reading the articles! Good luck to everyone and continue to strive for excellence!

Sincerely,
Avry Umali
2008-2009 SOTA Newsletter Editor

Compilation of Occupational Therapy Studies Presented on Student Research Day SY 2006-2008

I still remember our first summer semester and how I thought about what to do for a research topic. Fortunately, I found a group that had a topic that I was interested in. This may not be true to all groups at that time. That is why I thought of compiling all the abstracts of the studies previously presented during student research day. Hopefully this will aid you in coming up with a good research question and see what the others have done so far. This compilation consists of studies from school year 2006-2008.

Student Research Day 2006

Student Authors: Elissa Arnold, Michelle Santos, Douglas Scott
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Title: Perceived Adolescent Roles: Adult Reflections on Growing up in Single Parented Households
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of adolescent roles undertaken as the result of growing up in single parent households. Specifically, two questions were investigated. The first question investigated referred to the roles that adolescent African American women undertake in single parented households. The second question investigated in this study relates to how the roles assumed during adolescence affect the current familial roles assumed by these women. We sought to describe how socioeconomics, family dynamics, and culture influence the roles undertaken by these individuals.
Method: This study employed an Ethnographic research design to investigate the two above stated questions. Ethnographical studies look to describe and interpret a particular social group (Creswell, 1998). This method also allows the description of day-to-day roles for the individuals who live within the culture identified by a single parent household. The data of this study was gathered using a combination of semi-structured interviews, and self reported journals.
Participants: Six women were selected to participate in this study. Each of the participants met the requirements of being between the ages of 21 and 35, of African American decent, and having lived in a single parented household for their entire adolescence. Two of the participants were sisters recruited using a snowball method. The other participants responded to a posted flyer.
Results: The research team through the use of inter-researcher data analysis developed four themes from the data collected. The major themes include the increased level of independence developed as a result of their undertaken roles, the effects of culture and family on assumed roles, the effect undertaken roles had on social and leisure activities, and finally the relationship/bond developed between the adolescent and their parent.

Student Authors: Lesley Chow, Ihda Ibasco, Lynn Kaneshiro
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Title: The Practice of Co-sleeping of Filipino Parents in the United States: An Ethnographic Study

Background: Cultural values and beliefs are important to understanding the individuals and families that health professionals work with everyday. Values and beliefs guide the meaning and importance of parental roles within the family and the occupations they engage in. The Filipino culture integrates these values and beliefs in many of their child-rearing occupations, especially during the practice of co-sleeping.
Objective: The purpose of this ethnography is to explore the cultural meaning given to co-sleeping by Filipino immigrant parents in the United States with first-generation Filipino-American children.
Method: Ethnography was used to describe and interpret the meaning and value of co-sleeping in the Filipino culture. By using this approach, efforts were made to understand the depth and richness of their experiences of co-sleeping. Data collection was conducted through participant observation and couple interviews.
Participants: The participants in the study included 5 out of 6 Filipino families with first generation children, who immigrated to the United States from the Philippines, and who practice co-sleeping were interviewed by the research team. The 6th family did not feel comfortable sharing their experiences with co-sleeping and declined any interviews.
Results: Through the interview process, 5 predominant themes were identified as reasons for practicing co-sleeping with their children: Innate/natural condition, practicality, safety and security, closeness and cherishing childhood, and cultural tradition and meaning. Impracticalities of co-sleeping were also recognized by the parents, however were considered not as important when compared to the themes that were identified.
Conclusion: The results of this study support a strong cultural belief and family value system that is embedded in the practice of co-sleeping among the Filipino parents in the study. By understanding these embedded values, this study hopes to bring cultural sensitivity to Occupational Therapists and other health professionals, who may work with Filipino families that practice co-sleeping.

Student Author: Marian Claire
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Title: Perspectives of Adult Well Siblings of Persons with Schizophrenia
Background: This ethnographic study explores the experiences of adults who grew up with a sibling with schizophrenia. The study addresses the relationships between well siblings and their ill brothers or sisters, as well as ways in which the illness may have influenced the academic and social occupations of well siblings. Regarding the influence of the illness on the family, the study explores the issues of how information about the illness was shared within the family, as well as how the family shared information regarding the illness to the outside world.
Objective: Two global questions were addressed in this study: 1) How do the adult siblings of a person with schizophrenia describe growing up in their family? 2) How do adult siblings perceive the illness to have influenced their family life?
Results: The results of interviews with well siblings uncovered a deep sense of loss in their relationships with their ill siblings, as well as profound philosophical changes in their lives, which were shaped through the circumstances of the disease.
Conclusion: By understanding the multi-dimensional relationships between well individuals and their siblings who are living with schizophrenia, clinicians in the field of occupational therapy gain insight into how experiential factors contribute to the family dynamics of coping with mental illness. The implications for interventions extend to the development of supportive programs which address the emotional needs of all members of the family and in doing so, help them develop successful strategies and access to resources. The challenge lies in the development of early intervention approaches which educate the family, with particular attention to the roles, responsibilities and the impact on well-siblings as the bearers of a unique role within the family unit.

Student Authors: Martha Pajevski, Casey Truax, Medhat Ghattas
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton

Title: Fathers’ Perspectives on Parenting a Child with Neuromuscular Disability: A Phenomenological Study
Objective: This study aimed at exploring the perspectives of fathers in their role and experiences of parenting a child between the ages of three and five years with neuromuscular disorder. We sought understanding of these fathers’ perception of quality of life in light of the physical and psychological impact on their own occupations by assuming an unfamiliar parenting role. We wanted to access the lives of these fathers that devote themselves to ensuring that their children receive appropriate medical care and assistance in their overall development; therefore, it is appropriate that these extraordinary fathers gain a voice.
Method: Through a qualitative research method of semi-structured interviews of five fathers’ we captured the fathers’ narratives that, in turn, gave the participant fathers a voice through sharing their perspectives and that have been absent in the literature about fathering a child with neuromuscular disability.
Results: The participants revealed several common themes that include (1) feelings of uncertainty about the future, but with a sense of hope for eventual normalcy, (2) conflict between their anticipated role as “provider” for their family’s’ economic well being and the unanticipated role of “health manager” for their child; (3) the perception that their role as “health provider” was not considered respect worthy by others outside the family; and (4) all fathers all considered themselves their children’s “playmate” and “teacher”.
Conclusion: Overall, this study contributed valuable understanding through paternal narratives in parenting and facilitating their childrens’ developmental needs in order to ensure a quality of life for their child and family. It was evident that fathers can play an important and necessary role in parenting a child with a neuromuscular disorder.

Student Authors: Chris Rhee,Dennis Chen, Ethel Lai
Faculty Authors: Claudia Peyton and Eric Hwang
Faculty Mentor: Eric Hwang

Title: The Acculturation Experience of International Students: A Grounded Theory Study
Introduction: In any given year, there are approximately half-million international students studying in the United States. Even with preparation, many students arrive in the U.S. with a sense of confusion at best, or stunted day-to-day function, learning, even mental health crises, at worst.
Purpose: Past studies have relegated the difficulties of adjustments to factors inherent to the students’ make-up: personality factors, behaviors that are conducive for effective communication, maturity, emotional stability, flexibility and tolerance for ambiguity, but other areas of function and adaptation styles that have not been considered or researched. The purpose of this study is to use a qualitative method to capture the students’ experiences as they transition into a new learning environment.
Method: The research team utilized the grounded theory approach for this study in an attempt to explore the enculturation process of international students. Grounded theory was chosen for two reasons. First, grounded theory is useful in discovering the process that people use to make sense of their situation, and second, grounded theory also helps researchers to study different processes that occur in social situation and arrive at a theory, which explains the actions of the participants in the social context.
Results/ Conclusion: Three major themes surfaced from all the interviews conducted: personal causation, environmental adaptation, and communication adaptation. Each major theme consists of smaller sub- themes that provide information about the students’ experience. Under personal causation, some of the common themes students had included: excitement of coming to America, open and positive attitude, pervious knowledge of America, and involvement in clubs and organizations. The students expressed that the cultural influences in verbal communication and communication in the academic setting were major communication barriers. Lastly, the greatest environmental adaptations the students faced consisted of transportation, and adaptation to food.

Student Authors: Adrienne Scott,Tanesha Sandoz
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Advisor: Claudia Peyton

Title: A Biography of an African American Male’s Success
Background: It is evident that African Americans, and particularly African American males in Los Angeles County, face tremendous challenges of combating gang activity, homicides, poverty and attaining basic education while growing up in the inner city. There are many studies of this problem, the challenges posed, and statistical information about how widespread the problem is in the inner city. Some studies offer information about community programs that are available to this population that attempt to address some of the issues.
Objective and results: This biographical study attempts to study the life journey of one African American male who grew up in an inner city of Los Angeles and who nevertheless overcame challenges that many African American inner city males face by transitioning to successful adulthood. The hope is that some of the experiences, turning points and epiphanies in his life can be gleaned to develop programs using principles in Occupational Therapy to help others with similar challenges.

Student Authors: Tiffany Slater, Jennifer Westbrook, Parikh Shibani
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Title: Factors Affecting Adolescent Alcohol Use or Non-use: Adult Retrospective Survey
The purpose of this research was to discover the reasons men and women attribute to their consumption or abstinence from alcohol during the adolescent years between the ages of eleven to eighteen. Alcohol and its use and abuse by adolescents have become major concerns in society today. According to Focus Adolescent Services (2000), alcohol is a leading factor in the three leading causes of death for 15-to-24 year olds, which include automobile crashes, homicides and suicides. The average age when youth first try alcohol is eleven years for boys and thirteen years for girls. These statistics are staggering. Unfortunately, alcohol is a problem among our adolescents today and one we must address. Through the use of a survey questionnaire, we hope that results will identify not only factors that may lead to alcohol use but more importantly, factors that may prevent the use of alcohol by adolescents. It is our intention that these results be used by occupational therapists, other healthcare professionals and parents in the prevention of alcohol use among our adolescents.

Student Authors: Boguslawa Syrotiak, James Kilday, AnnaLyn Caytap
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Terry Peralta


Coping with Pain from Osteoarthritis: A Phenomenological Pilot Study Involving Six Elderly Participants of Adult Day Health Care Centers
Purpose: To explore the experience of pain of six elderly participants of Adult Day Health Care Centers (ADHCC’s) who are suffering from osteoarthritis, and to learn their preferred pain coping strategies.
Methods: The six participants from three different ADHCC’s were given semi-structured interviews to explore their perception of pain due to osteoarthritis and to learn which pain coping strategies were most beneficial to them. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed, with the data analyzed for common themes.
Results: Socializing with others and occupational participation appeared to be the most helpful pain coping strategies. When socializing with others, seniors reported that their awareness of pain was greatly reduced. They also tended to forget their pain while engaged in meaningful activities. Other common pain coping strategies included exercise, rest, pain medication, hot baths, massage, and hot and cold packs.
Conclusion: Since ADHCC’s provide seniors with ample opportunities to socialize and engage in group activities, participation at an ADHCC appears to have a beneficial effect on pain management among seniors. This is especially true of seniors who live alone as the participants reported that when they were inactive at home they dwelt on their pain and felt it more intensely. When engaging in social activities at an ADHCC, their perception of pain was reduced.



Student Research Day 2007

Authors: Katy Rae Bachar, Ivonne Moreno, Karen Rodriguez
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Experiences of Life Partners of Deployed Military Personnel: A Phenomenological Study
The experiences of individuals whose life partners have been deployed into a combat zone have rarely been studied. Current research about deployed military personnel and their families focuses on the physical, emotional and psychological stress resulting from the deployment of a loved one. However, little research exists that explores the changes in the meaningful occupations, roles, routines, and habits of those whose partners are in a combat zone. A phenomenological study was conducted with five individuals whose life partners were deployed in a combat zone. For the purpose of this study, the term “life partners” was defined as those who have made long-term commitments to the individuals who have been deployed, and were either married, engaged, or cohabitating. The five research participants represented various branches of the United States Military. One-hour interviews were conducted in order to gain an understanding of the experiences of each individual. Each interview allowed the researchers to gain insight into the individual’s roles and daily occupations. By examining this phenomenon through the scope of occupational therapy practice, this study revealed that the occupations of partners of deployed military personnel previously performed for leisure, social participation, education, activities of daily living, and instrumental activities of daily living were substantially altered. Additionally, the research participants reported that the needs and demands of military life had a pervasive influence on their habits, routines, and roles.

Authors: Renee Camenforte, Yen Dam, Irene Vithyavuthi, Zeela Diwa, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: The Experience of Growing Up with a Disabled Sibling
The purpose of this study was to understand the experience of growing up with a sibling with a disability. A phenomenological approach was used to research what it was like growing up with a sibling with a disability. This study provides some insight into how the client and their family interact. Interviews were 20-30 minutes long and were conducted at a place of the participant’s choosing. Four females and one male were interviewed all between the ages of 18 – 25. Some participants expressed feelings of neglect from the parents due to the disproportionate amount of attention that was given to their sibling with a disability. Participants with older disabled siblings found it difficult when they were able to surpass their disabled sibling level of mental functioning. All participants appreciated their experience of growing up with a disabled sibling and expressed how living with a disabled sibling is not easy, but difficult and challenging. Findings were consistent with previous studies on individuals with disabled siblings. The research results can be applied to occupational therapy through the understanding of family dynamics and how it plays a role in the development of siblings with and without a disability.

Authors: Kunthy Chhun, Cali Ho, Lanzio Arnau, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: A Narrative Analysis of Video Gaming
The video game industry is ever-evolving and it has continually satisfied the interest of young people to engage in playing video games. Previous research has shown that interruptions in typical human development and occupational performance may occur. Social skills such as communication and interaction may be negatively affected, players engaging in violent video game play can be stimulated to act aggressively (Janz & Martens, 2005), and extended game play may also have a negative effect on adolescents’ academic performance and active leisure participation. To study the video gaming phenomenon, six male participants who engaged in video gaming during adolescence were interviewed. The researchers applied the qualitative narrative analysis research method to explore the players’ own experiences and gain a better understanding of the nature of game play as perceived through a first person point of view. Data was analyzed using the three-dimensional space model which outlined and structured the retelling of the stories into meaningful experiences (Creswell, 2007). Results from our research illustrated that video gaming encouraged social interaction. Video gaming provided many opportunities for social participation, instead of creating social isolation as shown by previous research. However, our research demonstrated that time use and the adolescents’ daily routines revolved around video gaming, thus affecting other aspects of their occupational participation. The use of the narrative analysis research method will contribute to the current literature found on the effects of video gaming and provide further insight about this occupation. Our research provided a positive outlook to the benefits of video gaming that may shed new light on some of the negative stereotypes associated with video gamers. This research will be beneficial to the profession of Occupational Therapy, because this activity may be useful as a means to facilitate social participation.

Authors: Cheryl Chuateco, Ives Samson, Eileen Trimor
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Young Adult Asian American Males Description of Dance
The purpose of the study is to describe the chronological experience for Asian American male alumni dancers of the Pilipino American Coalition (PAC) Modern, a dance associated with the PAC organization of California State University, Long Beach. The study addresses the question: How do young adult Asian American males describe their experiences of beginning and continuing to dance? This study is important because occupational therapists are always looking for new and creative ways to treat clients through the use of meaningful occupations and further research is needed to validate the effects of dance in the rehabilitation setting. The method used for this study was descriptive qualitative analysis, specifically the narrative analysis methodology. The study consists of five Asian American male alumni dancers of PAC Modern. The ages of the participants ranged from 21-27 years. The participants were interviewed at a neutral location and interviews ranged from 20-40 minutes in length. The analysis indicated four themes in participants’ description of dance: physical association, identity formation, emotional stability, and dance as a self-determined choice. Participants emphasized the importance of dance in their lives for it is the source of their identity and contributed to their sense of well-being. In conclusion, dance was found to be more than an activity, it was found to be an occupation that served as an outlet of individual and cultural expression. Dance has specific meaning and purpose in each individual’s life. Yet, the study becoming a dancer has both individual and collective meaning. Themes evolved over past, present, and future dimensions as dancers described their motives to begin and continue dance after PAC. Occupational therapists can benefit from this knowledge because these issues of intrinsic motivation and motive toward participation are essential to returning persons with disabilities back to meaningful engagements in values occupations.

Authors: Cori Cohan, Lisa Colburn, Jim Luck, Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: The Experience of Young Adults on Myspace.com: A Phenomenological Study The purpose of this phenomenology was to describe the meaning that young adults ascribe to MySpace.com and what it is that attracts them to spend leisure time on the site. MySpace.com is an internationally popular social networking website that currently has more than 100 million users and those individuals use the site just about anywhere that the internet is accessible. The results of this research study benefit parents, educators, healthcare workers, and therapists by giving an “insiders” view into one of the time consuming occupations of young adults. Participants met the inclusion criteria of having a profile on MySpace.com which they currently use, and were within the age range of 18 to 24 years old. At this point in the study, five 30-45 minute interviews have been conducted. Early results demonstrate that many areas of occupation are positively affected by the use of MySpace.com and that this modality could be a very useful tool when implementing occupational therapy intervention with young adults. Common themes and recurring statements that participants described during interviews focused on how the use of MySpace.com has increased their formal education participation, leisure exploration, and social participation, (all three areas of occupation are described in the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process). Despite the negative media coverage of MySpace.com, these researchers have found that this information is a meaningful tool. Myspace.com can be used as a successful intervention for young adults who need to work on the above areas of occupation, as well as performance skills which may include: posture, upper extremity strength and effort, communication and interaction skills, and neuromusculoskeletal and movement-related function of the hand and wrist. Therefore, the results show that MySpace.com is an effective occupational therapy intervention as well as a meaningful occupation of young adults.

Authors: Abby del Rosario, Ronit Harounian, William Maloney, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-hua Huang

Title: Perceived Experiences of Adolescents Raised in a Single Parent Home
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand the perceived experiences of adolescents living in a single parent household from the adolescent’s perspective. In the context of literature found, the researchers hoped to gain an understanding of the family dynamics of single parent homes. Furthermore, the researchers hoped to develop insight into the influences within the home that contribute to adolescent development. The data was collected through one hour face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with five participants between the ages of 18-23. Interviews were conducted in the participants’ home or another quiet location that was comfortable for the researchers and participants. Analysis and interpretation of data was conducted through the use of coding to separate highlighted statements into clusters of meaning that were interpreted into categories. Researchers later verified their interpretations for accuracy by asking participants to confirm meanings stated during the interview. The researchers triangulated the data for validity through fieldwork notes, member checking, and researcher checking. The results revealed that the themes of lack of supervision due to increased hours of parents’ work away from home, greater responsibility for taking care of self and others, and increased support and interaction from friends were most prominent in participants’ recollections of adolescence. This research study will be beneficial because it allows the researchers to gain a broader understanding of the various perspectives of adolescents being raised in a single-parent household. This study may help inform the occupational therapist of the unique experiences of the adolescent’s upbringing, and may ultimately provide the occupational therapists with insights about adolescents’ social interactions with family and friends and their daily occupations.

Authors: Jennifer Farr, Celeste Gagolinan, Jenny Gibson
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: The Experiences of Night Workers
Working outside of the “nine-to-five” time frame, the schedules of day workers differ from those of night workers. Night workers are faced with the challenge of adapting their lives to uncommon work schedules, which in turn influences their overall lifestyles. The purpose of this ethnographic study is to describe the everyday experiences of night workers and reveal how their work routines maintain this unique culture. It attempts to better understand the culture through their daily routines, habits, and overall sense of well-being. This study included semi-structured interviews of three male and three female participants ranging in age from 26-55 years who work night shifts in the Los Angeles county area. Employment settings included: steam plant control operator, plant equipment operator, registered nurse, attorney, and hardware store supervisor. Participants have been working the night shifts for three to twenty-seven years. Interviews were conducted in the participants’ natural setting. These places included: the participant’s work location, the participant’s home community, and at a community setting selected by two participants. Interview questions provided participants an opportunity to reflect on their individual experiences as night workers. Interviews lasted approximately 30-45 minutes. Data was collected over a month period of time. Themes were identified from the collected data. Although participants identified pay differential incentives and the slower pace of the night environment as motivating factors, all participants expressed how choosing late work hours changed their lives. Life changes associated with working night shifts included the development of poor eating habits, unwanted weight gain, fatigue, changing sleep routines, and familial readjustment. As a result, this study may provide a basis for occupational therapy interventions aimed at the promotion of balance in time use toward improved health and wellbeing for the night worker.


Authors: Betty I. Grey, Melissa Jazmines, Linda Vuong, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Enablers That Assist People Who Are Visually Impaired in the Occupation of Work
The purpose of our research is to explore the feelings, attitudes, experiences, and perspectives of people who are visually impaired, in order to discover the enablers that assist them in the occupation of work. The focus group approach was used as a qualitative research method. Two focus groups, one with 8 participants and the other with 10 participants, were conducted in a conference room at the Braille Institute from approximately 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. The time frame was chosen because it was convenient for all participants. The participant selection criteria for the study included visually impaired males and females over the age of 18, who are currently working or have had previous work experience.
The focus group interviews gave researchers an introductory understanding of the facilitators and enablers that contribute to the participants’ successful work experience. Three main themes were woven throughout the interviews: (1) attitude, (2) independence, and (3) assistive technology. The findings from this study will benefit the field of occupational therapy by providing firsthand perspectives about the enablers that facilitate success in occupation from people with visual impairments. Additionally, we hope that this research will help people with visual impairments seek and obtain employment and eventually increase the rate of employment among the visually-impaired.

Authors: Matthew Hoffman, Mae Pascua, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Teachers’ Perspectives on School-Based Occupational Therapy
In recent years, school-based occupational therapy has become an increasingly large part of providing services to elementary school-aged children. One important role of school-based occupational therapists is to facilitate the inclusion of students in a regular classroom setting. This means that these therapists need to find a way to work with the educational system to give their clients the best treatment they have to offer. More and more therapists are discovering the positives and negatives of working in these settings. As our professionals spend more time in schools and classrooms, we are confronted by the unique complications presented by working in these environments. In order to better serve our clients, occupational therapists require techniques for positive collaboration with classroom teachers.
This study was conducted using the qualitative method of focus groups, which elicited the observations and opinions of six elementary school teachers with at least one year of experience with school-based occupational therapy. The focus group met on two occasions, where the participants, following a discussion guide, shared their experiences and perspectives on occupational therapy. After analyzing the data, themes such as collaboration, consultation, frustration, and indifference were derived. The findings from this study demonstrate the need for occupational therapists to communicate more effectively with classroom teachers to improve their professional relationship and provide better service to their clients. This study may inform both the teachers and the occupational therapists working in school-based settings of the great importance of having a positive collaboration.

Authors: Kimberly Iniba, Lindsay Brown, Kevin Stachel, Silvia Dorado, Jessica Hout, Eric Hwang CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Eric Hwang

Title: Past and Present Experiences and Future Aspirations of Adults Living with Asperger’s Syndrome – An Extended Survey Study
A qualitative research study to better understand and describe the experiences of three adults living with Asperger’s syndrome was conducted. Three common themes that affected the participants with Asperger’s syndrome arose from the study. These themes were sensory modulation deficits, anxiety, and socialization difficulties. In varying degrees, these themes affected their daily occupations related to school, work, leisure and social participation. The purpose of this quantitative study was to expand our sampling group to explore whether or not sensory modulation deficits, anxiety and socialization difficulties are common a wider sample of adults with Asperger’s syndrome and how their daily lives are affected. The research followed a mixed method sequential exploratory design. Sixty-five participants diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome completed the survey questionnaire comprised of 17 items, a checklist of the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) affected, and a section for additional comments. The results of the study showed that sensory modulation, anxiety and socialization were common among our participants. The results also showed that participants had difficulties with their relationships with coworkers (76.9%), with peer and friend activities (72.3%), financial (70.8%) and home management (63.1%) and academic activities (64.6%). The study is useful for teachers, employers or other professions who work with this population. Implications for occupational therapy include working hand in hand with adults diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome and their family members to ensure that their areas of concerns are being addressed. Occupational therapy may also be influential in enriching community awareness of Asperger’s syndrome to educate the public and to help increase opportunities for people with Asperger’s to build their lives through increased participation in the community, educational settings and work environments.

Authors: Jessica Mathias, Maryanne Orta, Kristi Reyes, Jamie Sellers, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: The Road Less Traveled
As future occupational therapists, the in-depth study of daily occupations is essential in order for us to best implement the principles of our profession. Daily occupations include activities that make up our lives such as grooming, dressing, eating, and mobility. As emerging occupational therapists, we need to develop a heightened awareness of everyday occupations to be able to appreciate the importance and impact a break in routine or ability could mean to our client. The focus in this research study is within one of the occupational therapy domains of concern, the daily activity of mobility, driving to be specific. Driving is an important aspect of mobility as it provides people with opportunities to participate in meaningful activities such as work and leisure pursuits. This research sheds new light on the sub occupations of driving. It exposes the significance of driving in people’s lives and is invaluable to us as occupational therapists in truly appreciating the centrality of this one occupation in the scheme of participation in everyday life.
This research explored the experiences of Southern California drivers in relation to daily occupations using the phenomenological study method. Interviews were conducted and reflective journal entries were recorded with seven individuals of various occupations who ranged in age from twenty-five to sixty-four and who are drivers in Southern California. The interviews lasted about one hour and were situated in locations convenient to the participants. After analyzing significant statements and grouping them into clusters using Colaizzi’s (1978) method of phenomenological data analysis, the data revealed three main themes. These themes were: driving time was utilized to accomplish everyday activities, that driving affects physical and emotional health and that environmental factors affect the driving experience. Our analysis also showed that time management was associated with all of the main themes.

Authors: Jennifer Newbert, Vita Ng, Karen Rapanut
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Relationship Phenomenology
This phenomenological research explored the perceptions held by college age females about their lived experiences of being in an intimate relationship. This study intended to portray the essence of the experiences the participants shared. Participants for the study were recruited from the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH). Ten participants were purposefully selected based on the following inclusion criteria and their experience of the phenomenon. The participants were 20-30 years of age. Participants were involved in a monogamous relationship of two years or more, and sexual orientation was not a factor. The data collection strategy used in this study was in-depth interviews of approximately one hour each. Interviews took place in the CSUDH library. By interviewing the participants using open-ended questions regarding their relationship, they were encouraged to share their lived experiences of commitment to an intimate relationship. The potential benefits of the study are to provide professionals in the health field with a deeper understanding of the perceptions of college age females regarding their intimate relationships.



Authors: Sheryl Tsai, Amy Zavora, Alexandra Benitez-Alvarez, Kyla Dickerson Santana, Claudia Peyton
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Adaptation of Parents
The purpose of our grounded theory study was to explain the process of adaptation described by parents of children with moderate to severe disabilities who are of adult age and have lived at home. Over the past several decades, advances in health care have drastically increased the life span of many children with moderate to severe disabilities. At the same time, a larger number of parents have found ways to care for their children at home and in their community. Research has primarily concentrated on parents of young children with moderate to severe disabilities. Due to a lack of empirical data addressing how parents of adult children with moderate to severe disabilities adapt to living with their adult child at home, our study focused on the subjective experiences and resiliency of these aging parents. Interviews were conducted with eight parents of adult children with moderate to severe disabilities who have lived at home. Interviews were conducted at the homes of the parents and were approximately one hour in length. Grounded theory research methods guided data collection and analysis. Parents reported positive aspects of care giving and resilience to daily challenges. This research study revealed the themes of adaptation, family relationships and community support correlating to positive parent resiliency. Concerns raised by parents included the impact a child with a disability had on their siblings, long-term living arrangements, and social participation for their adult child. Study results may help occupational therapists develop family-centered approaches to care. In addition, findings may provide insight to parents who live with their adult child with moderate to severe disabilities in strategies to maintain family resilience in the face of daily challenges.

Authors: Joanna Turlik, Janice Huang, Jana Yonemura
CSUDH Faculty Mentors: Claudia Peyton, Yan-Hua Huang

Title: Perceptions of nursing home residents: Activity preferences
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to investigate the preferences of activities for residents of low socioeconomic nursing homes as explained by their personal reflections of their nursing home experiences. Questions addressed included how the residents spent their time in the facility and how they described and defined their experience of living in a nursing home in terms of the activities that they enjoyed participating in.
Little research had been conducted with this population that focused specifically on their daily activity preferences. The results led us to a better understanding of the issues and needs that are important to these residents, and may be representative of the low-income nursing home population in the United States.
The researchers interviewed three males and two females, ranging from 71 to 94 years of age. These residents represented various cultures, including Filipino, British, Austrian, and Caucasian-American. The men had worked in the capacity of handyman, assembly worker, and middle-school teacher, and the women as a preschool teacher and owner and military wife. Each interview was one half-hour to one hour in length and was conducted in a conference room at a nursing home facility.
Analysis of the data resulted in three specific meaning units or themes pertaining to the residents’ experiences in relation to their activity preferences: lack of resources, personal factors affecting participation, and engagement in solitary but personally meaningful activities. The study revealed an overall lack of participation in the provided structured activities, while activities in which residents chose to participate were predominantly solitary in nature and based on their interests, values, and lifestyles.
This pilot study could contribute to our understanding of the underlying reasons and meaning behind activity preferences for nursing home residents and assist in developing activity programs and making life in a nursing home more meaningful.


Student Research Day 2008

Student Authors: Julie Alvestad, Tim Bruesehoff, Wendy Butler, Jessica Dungan
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Living with a Sibling with Non-Ambulatory Cerebral Palsy: A Phenomenological Study
Occupational therapists promote the functional independence of individuals with cerebral palsy; however, the care giving demands placed on the able-bodied siblings may impact their life roles and wellbeing. As a result, occupational therapists recognize the importance of exploring the unique challenges and experiences of this population. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to discover adult siblings’ perceptions of living with a brother or sister with cerebral palsy, describing their day-to-day lived experience to understand the essence of the phenomenon. A purposive sample of adult siblings was asked to participate in the present study and reflect back on their experience of living with their sibling with cerebral palsy. Interviews, ranging in length from thirty to sixty minutes, were conducted utilizing open-ended questions. Data analysis revealed five meaningful phenomenological themes including, constant care for the sibling with a disability requires participation of all family members, the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy, feeling a sense of pride, a willingness to accept outside support and the establishment of a positive impact on the their life. In addition, to these themes it was revealed that the essence of being raised in a household with a sibling with non-ambulatory cerebral palsy is although challenging it is a rewarding experience moreover, participants reported that they would not have pictured
life any differently. The findings expand the existing literature, and have relevance for advancing the occupational therapy profession through research.

Student Authors: Farrah Bagheri, Kellie Espinoza, Gloria Hsu, Amporn Kim
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
An Exploratory Narrative Analysis: The Lived Experience of Teenage Mothers
The purpose of this retrospective narrative analysis was to explore the lived experiences of teenage mothers. Occupational therapists’ role is to address the transitional phases of adolescents and young adults preparing to take on the responsibility of adult occupations. This qualitative narrative research study centered around three women from the ages of 18-35 that became mothers between the ages of 13-17 years. Researchers collected data through interviews over the course of three months. Each interview lasted approximately 45-60 minutes. Prior to each interview, a questionnaire was completed by each participant. The questionnaires included the areas of occupation; the results indicated a decrease in
social participation, a decrease in participation in leisure, a decrease in educational attainment, a decrease in activities of daily living, and an increase in participation in instrumental activities of daily living. The themes that emerged included: changes in environmental factors, social support, time use, role changes, and turning points associated with pregnancy. The results exhibited an imbalance among the areas of occupation. From an occupational therapy standpoint, these results indicated that the participants lacked the ability to cope with the role of motherhood as teenagers. At the conclusion of this study, further research would be essential to determine appropriate interventions to assist teenagers in adopting their role as a mother.


Student Author: Kate Chiverton, Ju-chin Chou, Kristen Hara, Sandy Kim
Faculty Author: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Play and the Highly Scheduled Child: A Qualitative Research Study
Play is the primary occupation of children. Occupational therapists commonly use play as a therapeutic medium when working with children. A child who does not know how to play or does not have access to play may suffer developmentally. Play occurs naturally for children during free or unstructured time. With changing school demands and social environments, free play is being replaced by structured activity. It can be argued that children’s free time is different today than it was even one generation ago. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the meanings behind parents’ choices to highly
schedule their children’s time, particularly their perceptions and values regarding structured and non-structured activities. The study participants consisted of four parents with children between the ages of five and twelve years, involved in at least three extracurricular activities or five or more hours of structured activities per week. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews that were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Analysis of the transcripts used a transcendental phenomenology approach, in which common themes were formulated from the lived experiences of these families. Major themes identified included characteristics of the parents and children, the perceived benefits of the structured
activities and free play, the decision-making processes used to select activities, and changes from the parents’ generation to the child’s. Additional factors included time, financial resources, peer influence, and the self-perpetuating cycle that begins once children are enrolled in certain activities. The findings may provide parents and professionals in the health and education fields with a better understanding of this phenomenon. As occupational therapists concerned with child development, time-use and quality of life, this study offered insight into the ideals and perceptions of the participants, and how their choices regarding structure and free play meet their expectations and affect their lives.

Student Author: Erika Cohen, Erica Atles, Brianna Butler, Bindiya Bhakta
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Before and After IDEA: The Narratives of Two Young Adults Who are Blind
Little has been reported in occupational therapy literature concerning the qualitative experience of young adults who are blind who transition into a stage of life after high school with little or no service provision. The purpose of this study is to describe the chronology of change from having full service provision under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to independently seeking and receiving services as a young adult blind person who is attending a living skills program. In this qualitative research study, the narrative analysis method was used to describe this lived experience by interviewing two young adults, one male and one female, ages 26 and 28 respectively, who are blind and previously received full service provision under IDEA. Each interview lasted approximately 60 minutes and was held in a mutually agreed upon location. During data analysis of this narrative chronology, three themes emerged: (a) sheltered under IDEA, (b) a need for preparation, and (c) adaptation achieved through motivation and taking initiative. These themes suggest that although the participants were provided with beneficial services under IDEA to succeed as students, transitioning to young adulthood was challenging. Without a transition program in place, these participants discussed having limited knowledge and skills to seek services independently and required a definite source of motivation and great initiative to succeed in
their lives as young adults. The results of this research have great implications for occupational therapists that can play a vital role in the lives of young individuals who are blind by preparing them for the transition process from supported services to independent selection of services. A successful transition process facilitated by occupational therapy services may help promote their future independence and successful community participation.

Student Author: Kristen Cooper, Whitney Frumen, Amy Barnes, Colleen Keller
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
The Lived Experience of Caring for a Child with Autism: A Phenomenological Study
The objective of this study was to gather in-depth information regarding the meaning and experience of caring for a young child, aged two through seven, with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Little research has been conducted on the lived experiences of caregivers of children with autism and the effect on family dynamics in the home. This qualitative investigation used a phenomenological approach in an effort to gain a deeper knowledge of the essence of the experience of caring for a child with autism. Three participants, all maternal caregivers, were interviewed for approximately 50 minutes each in a semistructured interview format. The interviews were audio-taped and later transcribed verbatim. Significant statements were extracted from the transcription and were clustered into themes. Six themes have emerged, which include: routines permeate daily life, the utilization of coping strategies, arising frustration, rewards of caring for a child with autism, rationalizing the diagnosis of autism and the effects on time. The themes that we have uncovered indicate that caregivers are consumed by autism, which has both enhanced and challenged their lives. These findings are important for the occupational therapy profession because the study provides a deeper understanding of the experience of caring for a child
with autism and how it impacts their occupations.

Student Author: Danielle Cvitanovich, Jessica Abad, Erin Kupka
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Narrative Inquiry: Men Living with Multiple Sclerosis
Although it has been concluded that women are more commonly affected by multiple sclerosis (MS), little evidence had been gathered regarding the lived experiences of men with multiple sclerosis. The purpose of this narrative inquiry was to understand how men diagnosed with MS made sense of their experiences throughout the process of adapting to the diagnosis. Three participants diagnosed with MS between the ages of 21 and 33 years were recruited and interviewed using a narrative inquiry approach. Three 45-60 minute initial interviews were conducted with each participant. Three 20-30 minute follow-up interviews were conducted with the participants after the data was analyzed. All of the interviews were carried out over a period of six weeks. The three major constructs identified from the interviews were self-concept, social support, and accessibility. Changes over time in self-concept, social support, and accessibility facilitated occupational engagement and therefore initiated the process of truly coping with the disease. The participants’ adjusted their self-concept over time to reflect the realities of their changed physical state; yet at the same time, participants hold a positive future sense of self, anticipating the experience of increased social supports and accessibility. Having positive social support, as well as access to proper health care, social interactions, and meaningful occupations, were construed as being a pivotal factor in their ongoing coping process. Because the disease impacts an individual’s ability to engage in meaningful occupations, occupational therapy is uniquely suited to address individuals with MS. With this information, occupational therapy intervention may help to encourage changes in self-concept, social support, and accessibility in order to promote continued occupational engagement in the lives of men with MS.


Student Author: Jessica Dungan, Julie Alvestad, Wendy Butler, Tim Bruesehoff
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Living with a Sibling with Non-Ambulatory Cerebral Palsy: A Phenomenological Study
Occupational therapists promote the functional independence of individuals with cerebral palsy; however, the care giving demands placed on the able-bodied siblings may impact their life roles and wellbeing. As a result, occupational therapists recognize the importance of exploring the unique challenges and experiences of this population. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to discover adult siblings’ perceptions of living with a brother or sister with cerebral palsy, describing their day-to-day lived experience to understand the essence of the phenomenon. A purposive sample of adult siblings was asked to participate in the present study and reflect back on their experience of living with their sibling with cerebral palsy. Interviews, ranging in length from thirty to sixty minutes, were conducted utilizing open-ended questions. Data analysis revealed five meaningful phenomenological themes including, constant care for the sibling with a disability requires participation of all family members, the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy, feeling a sense of pride, a willingness to accept outside support and the establishment of a positive impact on the their life. In addition, to these themes it was revealed that the essence of being raised in a household with a sibling with non-ambulatory cerebral palsy is although challenging it is a rewarding experience moreover, participants reported that they would not have pictured
life any differently. The findings expand the existing literature, and have relevance for advancing the occupational therapy profession through research.

Student Author: Karnaby Cunanan, Robert Fishman, Sarah Gainaru
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Placing a Parent in a Long-Term Care Facility: A Grounded Theory of the Decision Making Process
The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the decision making process of placing a parent in long-term care by determining the major themes present in this phenomenon. Four adult participants were interviewed face-to-face about their experiences in deciding for their parents’ long term placement. The interviews lasted from 30-45 minutes, were audiotape recorded, and took place at each participant’s location of choice. Grounded theory was used for the analysis and reduction of data, using open, axial and selective coding. Results showed that the parent’s declining health and the adult child’s
perceived capability to continue to provide care, were antecedents to the decision to place. Fearful events such as hospitalization or a fall were found to be instrumental “turning points” in the decision to place. The contextual themes involved in facilitating this decision were the family’s financial status, availability of support systems, caregiver’s role demands within the family, and the parent’s desire to remain independent. The intervening conditions indentified were the caregivers’ perceptions about placement and understanding of its value, assurance of adequate care, consideration of their parents’ feelings, advice of healthcare professionals, and the time available to make the decision. Findings of this study
suggest that the caregivers’ comfortable feelings about placement were attributed to less stress on the family, knowledge that their parents were receiving adequate or improved care, and more opportunities for social interaction. Source of their discomfort with the decision was linked to feelings of guilt, the perception that the parent was not receiving adequate or improved care and worries that they were lonely. The findings of this study will help occupational therapists and other healthcare practitioners gain better understanding of the decision making involved in placement, so that they may offer informed guidance to the families faced with this challenge.


Student author: Tiffany Ferrell, Anna Magnuson, Amanda Ramirez
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
The Transition Experience of Women Who Have Been Incarcerated
Occupational therapists work with people who have experienced occupational deprivation. Women who have been incarcerated suffer from significant occupational deprivation before and during incarceration, and this influences their transition back to the community. The purpose of this research was to get first-hand accounts from women who have been incarcerated in order to find out the enablers and obstacles that affected their lives and transitions. This research focused on the life stories of these women with an emphasis on their transitions back to community participation after incarceration. Although quantitative
research has explored the demographic trends among incarcerated women, it is important to give voice to the individuals directly. Narrative Analysis was used as a method for data collection and to analyze the life histories of three women who have been incarcerated, have been released from imprisonment for a minimum of ten months and have graduated from a re-entry program. Semi-structured interviews were used to generate themes within the pre-existing categories of interaction and situation, continuity and interruption. Research findings indicate that a search for community engagement was present before the
women were incarcerated and inclusion in a community in the transition program was supportive of their success. Findings also indicated that the structure provided by the setting, having opportunities to engage in meaningful work, helping others, spiritual practice and reuniting with family were instrumental for the transitioning women.

Student Author: Ieecha Harvey, Rebecca Shergill, Allen Tang, Hien Tran, Avry Umali
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Yan-hua Huang

Abstract Title:
A Qualitative Study that Explores the Lived Experiences of Filipino Immigrants from an Occupational Therapy Perspective
Little research has been done to explore the lived experience of Filipino immigrants and how they adapt to living in the United States of American from an occupational therapy perspective. The purpose of this qualitative study is to help identify coping strategies that Filipino immigrants use in a new environment. The qualitative method that was utilized was grounded theory. Five semi-structured interviews took place in locations specified by the participants. The duration of each interview was approximately 60 minutes. Follow-up interviews and member checking preceded the initial interview. Three females and two
males with an age range from 25 to 69 years old were referred through the snow ball techniques. Axial coding yielded three common themes amongst all the participants. The suggest themes include: (a) exploring the new environment by way of learning new skills such as seeking support systems, using public transportation, discovery of education and work, and converting currency; (b) reassessment of initial expectations and goals including difficulty with adaptation and job skills; (c) participation in a new meaningful occupation such as planning to attend school and acquiring a career were considered to be significant phenomena’s in Filipino immigrants lived experiences. According to the perspective of
Filipino immigrants living in Southern California, these strategies were helpful when adapting to an unfamiliar environment. The results of the study provide an insight to the coping strategies of immigrants in the new environment. These findings can be incorporated to medical and community programs when providing services to immigrants.

Student Author: Matthew Hoffman, Mae Pascua, Yuk Yee Chan
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan Hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Perspectives of Teachers on School-Based Occupational Therapy
School-based occupational therapy has become an increasingly large part of providing services to elementary school-aged children. One important role of school-based occupational therapists is to facilitate the inclusion of special education students in a general education classroom setting. This means that these therapists must find a way to work with the educational system to give their clients the best treatment they have to offer in this context. For purposes of triangulation, a mixed methodological design was used to collect qualitative interview data and quantitative follow-up through a survey questionnaire. This study was conducted in two phases. Phase one used qualitative focus groups with teachers of inclusive regular classrooms whose students received occupational therapy services. Teachers from
one California elementary school, four women and one man, were asked to share their perspectives about their interactions with occupational therapists and the services occupational therapists provided at school. Two separate focus groups were conducted each lasting 60 minutes. The second phase of this sequential mixed methods research consisted of a survey of 39 general education teachers, (male: N=5; female: N=34) who taught in regular inclusive classroom settings with children who received occupational therapy services. Teachers were recruited from Southern California and Southwest Washington. This study sought to explore perceptions of teachers found through the qualitative phase and to use the outcomes of phase one to inform and focus the survey questionnaire used in phase two of this study. Through positive collaboration with general education classroom teachers, occupational therapists can better serve students, parents, and teachers.

Student Author: Mary Lapuz, Cody Moore, Sarah Moon, Zach Story, Stephanie Wong
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Coping Strategies of Individuals Suffering From Chronic Pain
Because chronic pain is a significant and widespread problem that affects functioning and occupational performance in many aspects of people’s live, the aim of this study was to explore the coping strategies used by those experiencing chronic pain along with how the strategies are utilized into their occupations. The research conducted was a qualitative study using the phenomenological approach to capture the phenomenon of pain as well as the approaches used to manage pain. The study was conducted using semi-structured, in depth interviews to capture the essence of the lived experiences of those suffering from chronic pain. Research participants included two females ages 53 and 64 and one male age 37. Each participant was interviewed one time using a semi-structured method that was audio taped and transcribed verbatim. Three main categories of coping strategies emerged from these participant interviews including active, intrinsic, and extrinsic. Active coping strategies involved taking deliberation action to reduce the pain, intrinsic coping strategies involved attitudes and beliefs to deal with the pain, and extrinsic coping strategies included external resources to enable an individual despite pain. All participants reported use of a combination of coping strategies from these three main categories as a way to cope with their chronic pain. This research helped to gain a better understanding about the essence
of strategies used to cope with chronic pain. This research has important implications for client-centered occupational therapy interventions as therapists can help clients build a repertoire of coping skills necessary to effectively manage their chronic pain in order to improve occupational performance in meaningful activities.


Student Author: Hyojoo Lee, Daniel Rodriguez, Razia Patail
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Qualitative Research on Coping Strategies
The profession of occupational therapy is concerned with directly dealing with losses people experience such as physical capability, mental capacity and social relationships. The purpose of this study is to discover what coping strategies are used by surviving family members of a spouse or parent who has experienced a recent loss of a loved one due to a terminal illness. This qualitative study explored the phenomenon of coping with loss in further detail using the phenomenological method. Three participants were interviewed about their personal experience of coping with loss. Participant criteria included a minimum age of 18 years and an occurrence of the loss within the past 18 months. Data collection involved a single in-depth interview with each participant lasting 60 minutes. The data was analyzed
using Colaizzi’s method. Analysis of the data yielded the following results. Three themes were identified during analysis of the data including the initial response to the loss, the impact of loss on daily life, and coping strategies discovered through the experience of dealing with loss. This study is relevant to occupational therapy because coping with the loss of a loved one affects every aspect of a person’s daily occupations. This study could be beneficial to any individual who is dealing with the loss of a loved one by giving them insight about the process of coping with loss. Findings could benefit occupational therapists
practicing in mental health, oncology, and skilled nursing facilities as well as many other settings where coping with loss is an essential aspect of treatment.

Student Authors: Jacqueline Mananes, Jeanette Young, Karyn Strong, James Malicki
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton Huang
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
Karate for Children with Disabilities: A Phenomenological Study
Children’s primary occupation is play, and sports are one way that children can participate in play and socialize with peers. Many children with disabilities lack the skills to find occupations that are meaningful and valuable to them. Karate is thought of as a meaningful occupation that can be embedded in their daily routines to assist them in adapting to new environments and people. The potential benefit of research findings should provide occupational therapists and other professionals in the health field with a better understanding of how involvement in a karate program may benefit children with disabilities. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to discover parent’s perceived value of participation in karate for their children with disabilities. The perceived value of participation was generally defined by the shared experiences of parents regarding their children’s involvement in karate. Participants for the study were recruited from a karate program for children with disabilities and a snowball technique was used to recruit additional participants. The study consisted of five participants who are the parents of a child with Asperger’s syndrome, Autistic Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Pompe disease respectively. The participant’s children have been enrolled in a karate program for a minimum of six months for one hour per week with 80% attendance. The participants were asked open-ended questions through in-depth interviews and phenomenological research methods were utilized to analyze the data. Seven key themes were identified: confidence, good fit, socialization, parent satisfaction, physical skills, self-regulation, and adaptation. The occupational focus of the following research highlights meaningful themes that Karate cultivates in its participants.


Student Author: Rebecca Wilkinson, Maria Steinleitner, Jennifer Takeda, Lisa Petersen,
Yea Jine Lee
Faculty Author: Claudia Peyton
Faculty Advisor: Yan-hua Huang
CSUDH Faculty Mentor: Claudia Peyton

Abstract Title:
The Lived Experience of Parents Who Have Adopted Out of Country: A Phenomenological Study
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the lived perceptions of six parents who have adopted from out of the country and share common experiences of this phenomenon. There is a lack of occupational therapy research on how the transition of international adoption affects those involved in the adoption process. One third of occupational therapists work in the field of pediatrics. This can include children who are adopted from out of the country and are treated for developmental delays, sensory
sensitivities, and attachment issues. There is a lack of understanding of the specific issues that adoptive families face. At the time of the adoption, the parents are faced with the challenges of a foreign language, new surroundings, and different cultural practices, in addition to caring for all of the unfamiliar needs specific to an adopted child. Six semistructured interviews lasting 20 minutes to one hour were conducted. Data was analyzed using the phenomenological method of data reduction. Analysis of the data revealed six themes: Feeling overwhelmed by the adoption process, adapting to the new environment in a foreign country, adjusting to a new life, bonding with the newly adopted child, developmental delays, and support systems back home. The results from this study suggest that more can be done from an occupational therapy standpoint in order to address issues that may accompany this life altering experience. The findings from this study will benefit not only the field of occupational therapy but also future adoptive parents by providing firsthand perspectives of the factors that supported and hindered the participants through their adoption process. These findings can be used to ease the transition for families to allow for a positive experience and the building of a successful relationship.