Occupational choice of youth in a disadvantaged community

Introduction: The ability to make daily autonomous occupational choices has been identified as a human right and positively linked to wellbeing. Those marginalized from choice are considered at risk of occupational injustice. Disadvantaged young people are one group who may be marginalized from making such choices. Occupational choice is largely assumed to be an internal, individual process based on abilities and motivation, within environmental boundaries. From an external, contextual standpoint, this process has been scantly explored. This research, underpinned by an occupational justice perspective, sought understanding of disadvantaged young peoples' daily choices. Method: Qualitative and participative methods were used. Nine young people, aged 11-14 participated in Photovoice and photo elicitation interviews. Data were analysed thematically. Findings: Occupational choices are contextually informed and constrained, as illustrated by three themes: a limited perception of choices, choices informed by a need to stay connected to others and choices as a vehicle for social positioning. Conclusion: Occupational choices do not appear to emanate from internal interests and abilities but rather from necessitated and mandated actions based on socio-cultural expectations. This suggests that occupational therapists must pay closer attention to the social context that informs choices to improve wellbeing of at-risk young people.