Example occupational therapy dissertation topic 10:

An investigation into the effects that involvement with a programme of debate can have upon recovering alcoholics and drug users seeking new professional opportunities.

Building upon recent media exposure of the success of schemes undertaken by the Cyrenians within the north-east of England in conjunction with the University of Durham (and as featured by Radio Four), this occupational therapy dissertation combines primary and secondary research to evaluate the positive effects that active engagement in programmes that encourage logical thought and clear verbal presentation has upon the ability of those recovering from dependency addictions to secure meaningful employment. This is a dissertation that will require observation of, and interaction with, not only care professionals but also those who teach upon such courses, as well as the clients who participate in such programmes. Ideally, this is a study that should be conducted over no less than six months so as to enable before, during, and after interviews to be conducted and evaluated.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Bartholomew, N. G., Hiller, M. L., Knight, K., Nucatola, D. C. and Simpson, D. D. (2000). Effectiveness of communication and relationship skills training for men in substance abuse treatment. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 18(3), pp. 217-225.
• Mann, M. M., Hosman, C. M., Schaalma, H. P. and De Vries, N. K. (2004). Self-esteem in a broad-spectrum approach for mental health promotion. Health Education Research, 19(4), pp. 357-372.
• Stoffel, V. C. and Moyers, P. A. (2004). An evidence-based and occupational perspective of interventions for persons with substance-use disorders. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 58(5), pp. 570-586.