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PEOP Model in Occupational Therapy

Oct 15, 2025

Overview

This lecture reviews the application of the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) Model in occupational therapy, analyzing its use in research, practice, and education through a comprehensive scoping review.

Introduction to the PEOP Model

  • The PEOP Model is an occupation-based framework emphasizing the interaction between person, environment, and occupation.
  • It guides occupational therapy by focusing on performance (doing), participation (engagement), and well-being (health, quality of life).
  • The model has evolved over four versions, with a systems, client-centered, and ecological approach.
  • Used internationally and in diverse populations, settings, and practice areas.

Scoping Review Methodology

  • The review followed Arksey & O’Malley’s (2005) and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
  • Research questions targeted the extent and nature of literature applying the PEOP Model.
  • Articles were identified from five major databases using defined keywords.
  • Inclusion criteria: English, primary research, reviews, and discussion articles using the PEOP Model.

Extent of the Literature

  • 109 journal articles met the inclusion criteria.
  • Use of the PEOP Model increased significantly after 2020, with most articles citing version 3 (2005) or 4 (2015).
  • Majority of studies were primary research (80%) and set in community contexts (75%).
  • Target populations were diverse in age and condition, with studies focusing on individuals, organizations, and populations.

Nature of the Literature: Key Themes

  • Comprehensive Framework: Used to examine complex relationships among person, environment, occupation, and performance.
  • Environmental Influences: Studies explored how environmental factors (physical, social, cultural, policy, technology) impact performance and participation.
  • Occupation, Performance, and Participation: The model helps distinguish and study these constructs within occupational therapy.
  • Broader Perspectives: Applied to underrepresented groups, innovative settings, and emerging occupational areas.
  • Intervention Applications: Guided the development and evaluation of occupational therapy interventions, demonstrating improvements in client outcomes.
  • Adaptable Model: Model images were customized for specific research and practice needs.
  • Comparison to Other Models: Distinct for its client-centered focus, balance between person and environment, and broad applicability.

Implications for Research and Practice

  • The PEOP Model structures research questions, methods, and analyses in occupational therapy.
  • Supports practice across individual, organizational, and population levels, and new areas such as sleep, primary care, and social inclusion.
  • Highlights the importance of environmental factors, client narratives, and collaboration.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • PEOP Model — Framework analyzing the interconnectedness of person, environment, occupation, and performance in occupational therapy.
  • Performance — The execution of meaningful activities, tasks, and roles.
  • Participation — Engagement or involvement in life situations and activities.
  • Occupation-based models — Approaches in occupational therapy prioritizing meaningful activity as both means and ends.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the different versions and components of the PEOP Model.
  • Explore recent articles (post-2020) using the PEOP Model for evidence and examples.
  • Consider how distinct environmental and occupational factors influence performance in your setting.
  • Prepare to discuss or analyze case studies applying the PEOP Model in future assignments.