A Western tool in a non-Western context: critically exploring the application of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in rural India

Abstract

Introduction: As most occupational therapy tools have been developed in the Western world, there is a paucity of tools that are contextually relevant for non-Western settings. Tensions arise when engaging Western tools in non-Western settings. We encountered such tensions as employees and partners of an Indian non-governmental organization engaged in program evaluation and development of a community-based early intervention service for children. Objectives: In this article, we reflect on our experience of working to support local needs in the absence of contextually relevant tools through an examination of opportunities and challenges presented by use of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) in rural India. Method: To employ critical reflexivity to examine experiential and literature evidence pertaining to the use of this Western tool in an Indian (non-Western) context. Results: Numerous challenges were identified in the COPM’s fit to context. However, COPM use also facilitated beneficial team learning and achievement of program objectives. Conclusion: Countering Western hegemony in practice can be complex. A balance between such an objective and meeting organizational needs may be necessary in the short term while working toward impactful long-term development of contextually relevant practices.