Influencing discussions and use of neuroadvancements: Perspectives of Canadian occupational therapists

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Villamil, Valentina^{a; 1} | Djebrouni, Manel^b | Wolbring, Gregor^{b; *}

Affiliations: [a] Speech-Language Pathology, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada | [b] Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies, Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

Correspondence: [*] Address for correspondence: Gregor Wolbring, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary T2N 4N1, AB, Canada. E-mail: [email protected].

Note: [1] Valentina Villamil was a member of the Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada when she executed the work of this study.

Abstract: BACKGROUND:The early involvement of many actors including health professionals is identified in neuroethics and neurogovernance discussions as crucial in constructing conversations around awareness, reaction, and knowledge development pertaining to the ethical, legal, and societal consequences of neuroscientific or neurotechnological advancements (NA). Occupational Therapists (OTs) have a stake in NA; however, OTs are rarely mentioned within this context. Lifelong learning (LL) could be used to increase OTs knowledge on NA and its consequences. However, LL is rarely mentioned within neuroethics and neurogovernance discussions. OBJECTIVE:The study’s purpose is to understand the role of OTs as professionals and citizens in neuroethics and neurogovernance discussions and to examine the utility of LL processes put in place for OTs to empower OTs to contribute in a meaningful way to NA discussions. METHODS:8 semi-structured interviews with OTs were conducted and analyzed using a directed content analysis. RESULTS:Although participants believed OTs can provide a holistic perspective to neurogovernance discussions, their knowledge on NA and its consequences is limited, and LL is not used as a tool to remain informed about such consequences. CONCLUSION:More education on NA and its consequences throughout their OT degree and through LL opportunities is warranted to facilitate their involvement.

Keywords: Neuroscience, neuroethics, neurogovernance, role expectation, occupational therapists

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-205108

Journal: Work, vol. 73, no. 2, pp. 527-545, 2022