my fault or yours?

Locus of Control- LoC

I scored a 14 on the locus of control worksheet. A zero is external and a 23 is internal. A 14 airs on the side of internal locus of control but just barely. So what does all of this mean? Is everything my fault, your fault, or the world in generals fault? And what does that have to do with occupational therapy?

Locus of control refer to who/what is responsible for what is happening in the world. Individuals who have an internal locus of control tend to take responsibility for their actions and believe they are responsible for changing things in life. Individuals with an external locus of control believe things are out of their hands and the often the fault of others.

I do believe there are things that are out of my control and things I cannot take responsibility for, like the current state of the world with COVID-19. The only role I know to take in that is to wear and mask, touch as few things as possible in public, and try to be kind. But that role can be viewed as an internal locus of control as well because I AM doing something to help.

I think my 14 score is right on the money.

LoC and OT

As an occupational therapist our goal is to promote and internal locus of control. We want client/patients to feel they are in control of recovery, of therapy, of their care plan. The mantra and purpose of occupational therapy is to be client centered and holistic, meaning every therapy should be tailored to an individuals needs. If an OT is presented with a client who believes everything just happens to them and is out of their control, gentle encouragement to be self-fulfilling will be the best therapy they can give. 

Encouraging a client to want to get better on their own accord. This wont always be a possibility so making sure to be patient and understanding is key. And making sure to never lose sight of the big goal which is making the individual have the best quality of life possible for them specifically. 

A Glyph on Leadership

A look into my stance on leadership in the form of a drawing:

I found this exercise interesting. When I went back to look at my drawing from the beginning of the didactic portion of OT school I was very surprised to find the images were almost identical. I don't think this means I haven't experienced growth in OT school but rather that I have a pretty firm stance on my leadership style. I believe this comes from seeking out and holding leadership positions since I was young. I also believe this is due to my relationship and draw to leaders. One of the most important things I think I have learned in OT school is what I need in order to be successful. I need to be pushed to be the best version of myself and that comes from leadership (as in being led by an effective leader) or the drive to be a good leader/example to others.