Occupational therapy and culture: perspectives towards social transformation

Abstract

Introduction. This paper discusses the correlations between occupation and culture in a contextualized and conscious way, the dimensions of the symbolic, economic and citizen culture and the potential of the Occupational Therapy to produce practices, research and knowledge in this field. Objective. This paper aims to expand the theoretical and practical reflections of Occupational Therapy directly related to culture in connection with socioeconomic demands and problems, from the critical and social paradigms. Method. Four projects and programs are presented. They were developed by a teaching, researching and extension university group, in the areas of enjoyment, promotion, production and cultural management, with different groups (children, young people, artists, homeless, vulnerable communities and people with mental disorders). The experiences were developed by an transdisciplinary team, coordinated by an occupational therapist in São Carlos (SP Brazil). Conclusion.The occupational therapist was considered an articulated professional to promote the different dimensions of culture, in a comprehensive and integrated manner, involved in the occupations of people and groups, in the promotion of their own cultures and in defense of citizenship, belonging, plurality and social and human rights. The practices may contribute to the promotion of cultural diversity and the sense of a human, sustainable and responsible development.