An analysis of computer-related articles in occupational therapy periodicals.

The introduction of personal computers in the late 1970s and early 1980s has affected occupational therapy. Nine journals, three trade newspapers, and one series book published over an 11-year period by four English-speaking countries were catalogued for articles pertaining to computer use in occupational therapy. This investigation yielded 174 articles that were categorized by information type, application of computers covered, sophistication of technology, computer brand, and country of publication. Most articles provided general information, described clinical training applications, used an Apple computer, and were from an American publication. Few articles were reports of research. The percentage of computer-related articles has substantially increased in the observed 11-year period. These findings indicate increased computer use in occupational therapy.