Exploring Interoceptive Awareness With Adults: Occupational Therapy Practitioner Knowledge, Perception, and Practice Patterns.

Abstract

As the literature states, interoception is important in health and wellness. Disruption of this system can negatively impact occupational performance. We completed a descriptive study to understand how occupational therapy practitioners working with adults address interoceptive awareness. A researcher-developed survey gathered data on knowledge acquisition of interoception and perceived practice patterns related to assessment, intervention, and outcomes. Participants (N = 44) reported acquiring knowledge of interoception through professional websites, browsing databases, and continuing education as the most common information sources. Client self-report (56.8%) and clinical observation (54.5%) were the most commonly reported assessments. Rehabilitation practitioners (n = 8) reported no use of formal assessments. Most participants (63.89%) reported interoceptive awareness interventions to be effective. Further research is needed on best practices for interoception assessment and intervention related to occupational performance.