Affiliations: The University of Western Ontario, School of
Occupational Therapy, London, ON, Canada
Note: [] Corresponding author: Katherine Marie Felix, The University of
Western Ontario, School of Occupational Therapy, London, ON, N6A 5B9, Canada.
Tel.: +1 905 259 4265; E-mail: katarinafelix@hotmail.com
Abstract: Objective: This article presents a reflection on four students'
experiences on unexpected work transitions due to natural disaster in
Chile. Participants: Discussions with locals encountered while traveling
throughout Chile prompted the authors to explore the ideas of occupational
identity and global stigma attached to unexpected work transitions. Methods: The authors present here, excerpts from reflective
journaling and an exploration of factors affecting certain individual's ability
to adapt and regain occupational identity that has either shifted or been lost
due to the effects of natural disaster. The authors explore both micro and
macro level factors that may affect this occupational shift, and how attempts
to maintain occupation after natural disaster is influenced not only by person
factors, but largely by global perceptions of the country affected by natural
disaster. Results and conclusions: Lastly, the authors reflect on this
experience from a student perspective, the impact it has on emerging
occupational therapists, and the need for more focused research concerning
global stigma and its cascading effects.
Keywords: Unexpected work transition, stigma, natural disaster, occupational identity
