Interpersonal Events
What are interpersonal events in OT?
Emotional, verbal, or behavioral exchanges between therapist and client that affect the therapeutic relationship
Mr. C yells at his OT when told therapy is ending. What interpersonal event is this?
Power dilemma (and expression of strong emotion)
What should an OT do first when a client has an embarrassing moment during therapy?
Ensure safety and dignity are maintained
What causes power dilemmas in OT?
The inherent power difference between therapist and client.
What are contextual inconsistencies?
Changes in the therapy routine or environment
How many interpersonal event categories did Taylor identify?
12
Ms. V becomes depressed after losing her spouse during rehab. What type of event?
Crisis point
Why should emotionally charged tasks be handled carefully?
They may evoke shame, fear, or frustration that harms trust.
Name one population where clients may not voluntarily seek OT.
Court-mandated, worker’s comp, or school IEP clients.
Give one example of a contextual inconsistency.
New student observer, teletherapy, PPE, or social distancing.
Name 3 of Taylor’s interpersonal event categories.
strong emotion, self-disclosure, power dilemmas,
nonverbal cues, verbal innuendos, crisis points,
resistance, boundary testing, empathic breaks,
emotionally charged tasks, limitations, contextual inconsistencies.
Mr. L has a bowel accident during therapy and feels ashamed. What type of event?
Emotionally charged therapy task.
How did the OT help Mr.L after his accident?
Normalized the situation, educated him, and preserved dignity.
What emotional response might clients show during a power dilemma?
Resistance, manipulation, passivity, or anger.
What is an interpersonal cascade?
When multiple interpersonal events happen at once.
What is the first step when an interpersonal event occurs?
Accurately identify the type of event.
A client changes behavior when a student observer is present. What event?
Contextual inconsistency
What does ignoring a client’s emotions risk?
Weakening the therapeutic relationship.
Define “crisis point.”
A stressful incident that disrupts occupational engagement.
Can all interpersonal events be resolved?
No some can only be managed or navigated
What model integrates interpersonal events into therapy reasoning?
Interpersonal Reasoning Model (IRM).
A client lashes out when told insurance won’t cover more sessions. What dual events could this be?
Limitation of therapy and power dilemma
What is the OT’s goal when emotions arise during therapy?
Use empathy, reflection, and reasoning to maintain trust.
What should OTs focus on after a client experiences a crisis point?
Provide emotional support and adapt engagement strategies.
What skills help prevent interpersonal cascades?
Keen observation, emotional attunement, and active listening.