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Occupational Adaptation as a Social Process in Everyday Life

Whilst the term occupational adaptation is understood conceptually as both a state and a process closely linked to one's identity, few studies have considered how this concept reveals itself in everyday settings. Thus, there is merit in employing grounded theory methodology – with a focus on uncovering social process – to further understand the concept of occupational adaptation. This paper draws on findings from two grounded theory studies. Study one explored the settlement processes of 25 women who had emigrated from India to New Zealand between the years 1987–2005. In study two, 15 participants over the age of 75 and living in an Australian city were interviewed regarding their understanding of well-being. Shaping Self (study 1) and Trading Off (study 2) were revealed as forms of occupational adaptation through which participants increased their occupational choices. The findings further reinforce current understandings of occupational adaptation as tied to identity and well-being, and advance the notion that occupational adaptation can be used as a strategy to proactively respond to altered situations and broaden one's occupational choices. Occupational scientists interested in extending understandings of occupational adaptation are encouraged to consider choosing a grounded theory methodology to frame their study.