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Cake Decorating as Occupation: Meaning and Motivation

Abstract A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted that revealed the subjective meaning of engagement in a unique and artful occupation. Twelve participants, identified as casual, avid, or expert cake decorators were interviewed using a semi‐structured interview format and data were transcribed and analyzed. Participants conveyed how cake decorating was meaningful and motivating to them. The themes of meaning that prompted initial engagement were their perceived satisfaction, the experience of flow, and the health benefits obtained. Themes of motivation that prompted continued engagement were the compliments received, the caring expressed, and the projected ability to engage in another occupation if decorating cakes was no longer possible. Determining the subjective meaning of engagement and the motivation to continue to engage in occupation has implications for occupational science. Such study helps explain why people do what they do.