Variables affecting the competency maintenance behaviors of occupational therapists

Objective. The purpose of this study runs to examine the relationship betwe en work environment work environment and the competency maintenance activit ies of occupational therapists. Method. A survey of 121 occupational therapists in three states and intervi ews with 8 occupational therapists in Ohio were used. Results. Analysis of survey data indicated that workplace support and the d egree of competency monitoring significant determinants of competency maint enance behavior. State continuing education requirement had no impact on re ported levels of competency maintenance. Personal motivation of the therapi st emerged as a potentially important moderator of the relationship between environment and competency maintenance. Conclusions. Although environmental factors enhance competency maintenance activities, participation in competency maintenance is also related to the personal commitment of the individual therapist. Strategies that reduce bar riers to effective competency maintenance and promote a culture of continui ng competency in the profession merit further investigation.