Introduction / Rationale: Research focused on experiences of parenting with a disability or challenge is expanding. However, occupational therapy practice as it relates to parenting is poorly understood.
Objectives: This study aimed to explore attitudes and practices of occupational therapists in Ireland when supporting parenting roles.
Methods / Approach: A cross-sectional online survey of occupational therapists in Ireland was conducted using convenience sampling and snowballing techniques. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.
Results / Practice Implications: Ninety-seven therapists completed the survey, and most respondents were situated in healthcare services. Respondents reported that parenting was within their professional scope, however, their engagement with parents regarding parenting concerns is limited. Few therapists routinely conducted formal parenting assessments or delivered interventions, despite acknowledging their relevance. Most therapists use informal assessments including parental self-report when assessing parenting concerns. Current occupational therapy services in Ireland are primarily based in healthcare and focus on working with parents with disabilities through largely impairment-focused approaches. Examples of occupation-focused parenting interventions in occupational therapy practice in Ireland were scarce. Barriers to parenting-focused practice identified included limited therapist confidence in conducting parenting assessments and interventions, insufficient knowledge and training, a lack of formal parenting assessments, and the lack of dedicated occupational therapy parenting resources and programmes.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: Occupational therapists in Ireland acknowledge parenting as a valued occupation for their clients, however, therapists’ engagement with supporting parenting-related concerns remains limited. Embedding parent-focused approaches into routine occupational therapy services in Ireland requires multifaceted improvements, including research to develop and test tailored assessments and interventions, and training and support for therapists.