Staff Profiles

• Theories and models that are used or have been developed within OT including: cognitive behavioural, client centred, MOHO, CMOP, IRM
• Occupational therapy working with children, young people and their families (use of CO-OP, Play, therapists playfulness, group, family oriented app in children's settings)
• Cognitive approaches skill development and motor function 
• Therapeutic use of self; skills training for individual and group work; applying CBT and MOHO.
• Advance theraputic reasoning, therapeutic relationship reasoning

Modules taught

Therapeutic Use of Self

Occupational therapy accross the life span

Occupation disruption

Health Promotion

Transformative Occupational Therapy

Advancing Occupational Therapy Practice 

Dissertation 

Supervision

Pre reg OT dissertation 

PhD thesis 

Farzaneh Yazdani's current research is in line with the Model of Occupational Wholeness, a model she developed based on needs theories and occupational science theories in combination with research findings in this area.

The 'model of occupational wholeness’ (MOW) or the ‘3 Bs of doing’ has been developed based on the needs theories and occupational science theories in combination with research findings in this area. The MOW explains how doing as an intermediate need motivates human beings to spend time and energy in order to meet their needs for being, becoming and belonging.

The MOW helps to conceptualise why human beings are motivated to do things that can help them survive, be part of their world and evolve towards what they value. The MOW explains how obstacles in doing what can fulfill a person’s valued needs can cause dissatisfaction with occupational life. The importance is not only meeting the needs but also the needs as they are valued by the person.

In light of the environmental and personal barriers or enablers, opportunities for doing, self and environmental awareness can help people to have a realistic understanding of who they are and what their environment is. The model aims to provide a reflective tool to help people to enhance their understanding of themselves and their own world. The strategies that would help improve the match between who people are and who they want to be within a realistic view of themselves and their world could be borrowed from several compatible theories and frames of reference. The aim of this ongoing study, therefore, is testing these theoretical views in different contexts and with different populations.

The current areas of focus in her research are as follows:

1. Exploring the construct of ‘Belonging’ from perspectives of different populations; people with ME, refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants

2. Exploring the experience of Being, Belonging, Becoming and overall Occupational Wholeness among Health Care Professionals and students, people in a caring responsibilities and general public

3. Choice and meaning making for refugees asylum seekers and vulnerable migrant (RAVM) women in the context of their past and current sense of Belonging.

Research group membership

• Children and Families Research Grouphttps://www.brookes.ac.uk/osnm/research/centre-for-nursing--health-and-social-care/children-and-families/

• Centre for Movement, Occupational and Rehabilitation Sciences (MOReS): https://www.brookes.ac.uk/shssw/research/centres-and-groups/mores/

• Investigating sensory processing and cognitive function in people with ME: a pilot study:http://www.meresearch.org.uk/our-research/sensory-processing/

Research grants and awards

ME research UK for research project: Investigating sensory processing and cognitive function in people with ME and its impact on their day to day living

Elizabeth Casson Trust Travel grant

MOHO clearning House, UIC visiting scholarship

Nabil Barakat award for distinguished PhD thesis 

McGill University, Faculty of Rehabilitation travel grant 

Books

• Cheraghifard M, Shafaroodi N, Beigi MK, Yazdani F, Ed., Persian VQ, MOHO UIC ()
  Website 

Journal articles

• Yazdani F, Mehdi M, Rassafiani M, Roberts D, Abu-Zurayk W, Amarlooee M, 'The COVID-19 Pandemic May Force the World to Reflect on the Pre-Pandemic Style of Life'
  International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health 9 (3) (2021) pp.124-131
  ISSN: 2322-1100 eISSN: 2476-5759
  Abstract

  Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of changes on an individual and societal level. The current study was designed to investigate the impact of the isolation/ social distancing period on people’s sense of Being, Belonging and Becoming in the early stages of the COVID-19 measures.
  Methods: A cross sectional survey study design was employed using a researcher-developed questionnaire with items developed based on the Model of Occupational Wholeness to investigate the changes that may have happened to what people have been doing during the COVID-19 measures compared to the time before. A sample of 1206, using snowball sampling, responded to the online questionnaire.
  Results: Findings indicated that participants at the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic had changed the pattern of their Doings. The change of pattern, which was considered positive, was in relation to people valuing their health, having more time to take care of themselves, and doing activities which they had never had enough time to do before.
  Conclusions: While these findings are not generalizable, they provide some insights into how the post-pandemic lifestyle of many people does not permit doing a lot of activities that could help with their health and well-being. While enforced isolation may have negative consequences, it is also clear that the pre COVID-19 pandemic lifestyle did not fully support healthy living. Reflecting on the COVID-19 lockdown experience provides an opportunity to review what are the essential personal and societal elements for living a healthy life.
  

  Website 
• Dehghanizadeh M, Akbarfahimi M, Zareiyan A, Yazdani F, Khalafbeigi M, Soleimani F, 'Predictors of Interest in Performing Activities Among Iranian Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy'
  Iranian Rehabilitation Journal 18 (4) (2020) pp.377-386
  ISSN: 1735-3602 eISSN: 1735-3602
  Abstract

  Objectives: Generally, adolescents who are interested in performing activities experience positive emotions and report high levels of well-being. However, adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP) encounter various issues affecting their interests. The present research was planned to investigate the predictor factors that affect the interest in performing activities in Iranian adolescents with CP.
  Methods: In total, 312 adolescents with CP (10-19-year-olds, Mean±SD age: 14.08±2.34 y) participated in this cross-sectional study. Their gross motor function was assessed by the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), and their manual ability was evaluated by the Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) in random order by an occupational therapist. All study participants also completed the Adolescent Interest Inventory-Cerebral Palsy (AII-CP). The predictive model was analyzed using a multiple linear regression model by the enter method.
  Results: The multiple linear regression analysis data presented that the highest independence in motor performance, personal values, social environment support, and age appeared to be the strongest predictors of interest in performing activities in the explored adolescents with CP (R2: 0.475).
  Discussion: Interest as a significant factor for participation and motivation in conducting daily living activities is associated with the highest independence in motor performance, personal values, social environment support, and the age of adolescents with CP.
  

  Website 
• Sattari Mahsa, Yazdani Farzaneh, Rassafiani Mehdi, Hosseini Seyed Ali, 'Construct validity of the Persian version of the Child Occupational Self-Assessment in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Iran'
  HONG KONG JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY 32 (2) (2019) pp.127-135
  ISSN: 1569-1861 eISSN: 1876-4398
  Abstract

  Objective.
  This study aimed to assess the construct validity of the Child Occupational Self-Assessment, translated to Persian that could provide occupational therapists with a tool to evaluate occupational competence and values of children in Iran.

  Methods.
  A total of 250 children (87 girls and 163 boys) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder aged 7.5–11 years referred from two specialised children’s hospitals were included. The researchers read the questions to the children and they identified their own answers. The data were analysed based on the Rasch Rating Scale Model.

  Results.
  Four of the items showed misfit and as a result of deleting these items the Persian version of the questionnaire has 21 items with an appropriate validity.

  Conclusion.
  The Persian version of Child Occupational Self-Assessment can be used with new items format. It could be also useful to replace the missing question to develop the tool further.

  Website 
• Ritter VC, Yazdani F, Carstensen T, Thorrisen MM, Bonsaksen T, 'Psychometric Properties of an Instrument Derived from the Intentional Relationship Model: the Self-Efficacy for Recognizing Clients’ Interpersonal Characteristics'
  Open Journal of Occupational Therapy 6 (2) (2018)
  ISSN: 2168-6408
  Abstract
  Background: The Intentional Relationship Model conceptualizes the therapeutic use of self within occupational therapy. To increase motivation for and success in establishing therapeutic relationships, therapists need self-efficacy for using the self in therapeutic practice. However, attempts to combine this model with self-efficacy theory are rare, and instruments by which to measure self-efficacy for therapeutic use of self are in a developing stage. Aim: This study aimed to examine the factor structure and internal consistency of the Norwegian Self-efficacy for recognizing interpersonal characteristics (N-SERIC). Methods: Occupational therapy students (n = 100) from two education programs completed the instrument along with sociodemographic information. The factor structure was examined with Principal Components Analysis (PCA), and internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach’s α and inter-item correlations. Results: The PCA revealed that all N-SERIC items belonged to the same latent factor, with factor loadings ranging between 0.75 and 0.89. The internal consistency of the scale items was very high (Cronbach’s α = 0.96). Conclusions: The N-SERIC scale is unidimensional and the items have very high internal consistency. Thus, the scale sum score can be useful for occupational therapy research and audits focusing on interpersonal aspects of practice.
• Schwank K, Carstensen T, Yazdani F, Bonsaksen T, 'The Course of Self-Efficacy for Therapeutic Use of Self in Norwegian Occupational Therapy Students: A 10-Month Follow-Up Study'
  Occupational Therapy International 2018 (2018)
  ISSN: 0966-7903
  Abstract

  Background. Occupational therapy students need to develop self-efficacy for managing the therapeutic relationship in practice. This study examined the 10-month trajectories of Norwegian students’ self-efficacy for use of self. Methods. Eighty-nine students completed self-efficacy questionnaires related to the use of self after a workshop and at 3- and 10-month follow-up. Changes on the three outcome measures (self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use, for recognizing clients’ interpersonal characteristics, and for managing interpersonal events) were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA. Results. Across the follow-up period, the students improved their self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use (partial n^2 = 0.44, p < 0.001), for recognizing clients’ interpersonal characteristics (partial n^2 = 0.81, p < 0.001), and for managing interpersonal events (partial n^2 = 0.32, p < 0.001). Conclusion. The increased self-efficacy for use of self that was found at 3-month follow-up was maintained at 10-month follow-up. The results indicate that students may experience a boost in self-efficacy for therapeutic use of self after a brief workshop and that these changes can be sustained over time.

  Website 
• Hussain RA, Carstensen T, Yazdani F, Ellingham B, Bonsaksen T, 'Short-term changes in occupational therapy students’ self-efficacy for therapeutic use of self'
  British Journal of Occupational Therapy 81 (5) (2018) pp.276-284
  ISSN: 0308-0226 eISSN: 1477-6006
  Abstract Introduction. Self-efficacy concerned with the therapeutic use of self is important for occupational therapists, and students need to develop the skills and the self-efficacy required to meet interpersonal challenges in practice. This study examined short-term changes in occupational therapy students’ self-efficacy for using therapeutic modes, for recognizing clients’ interpersonal characteristics, and for managing interpersonal events. Factors associated with such changes were also examined. Method. A sample of 89 Norwegian occupational therapy students from two universities was used, and the students completed three questionnaires 2–3 weeks after a workshop and at 3 months’ follow-up. Changes on the outcome measures were analyzed with t-tests for dependent samples, and factors associated with the outcome changes were analyzed with linear regression analyses. Results. During the follow-up period, the students improved their self-efficacy scores on all three outcome measures. Higher age was associated with more improvement on two of the outcome measures. Conclusion. The occupational therapy students improved their self-efficacy for therapeutic use of self during the brief follow-up period. Thus, the time in education, either university-based or practice-based, seems to add to students’ self-efficacy for clinical skills in this area. Higher age appears to be a resource for gaining more self-efficacy from attending educational courses.Website 
• Nazi S, Shafaroodi S, Lajevardi L, Mehrban AH, Yazdani F, Hossainzadeh S, 'Life Balance of Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy'
  International Journal of Clinical Medicine 8 (11) (2017) pp.583-594
  ISSN: 2158-284X
  Abstract

  Purpose: Having the child with Cerebral palsy is a very stressful experience for the family that could affect daily patterns and routines, habits, needs and occupational performances of all family members specially mothers. This study aimed to investigate life balance of mothers of children with Cerebral palsy (MCCPs) based on the Life Balance Model. Method: Fifty MCCPs aged 3 to 9 years with sample convenient method participated in this descriptive and cross-sectional study. The Severity of cerebral palsy was determined by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) and the life balance of mothers was evaluated by Persian version of the LBI (P_LBI). The collected data were evaluated and analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The total mean score of LBI and its subscales showed that there is no balanced or very balanced life in mothers and they could be categorized to unbalanced (n = 21) and very unbalanced (n = 29). The total mean score of LBI was 1.46. χ2 test revealed statistically significant difference between two categories (unbalanced and very unbalanced) of mothers regarding GMFCS level (p = 0.009). Also, the total mean score of LBI and its subscales showed no significant difference between two categories (unbalanced and very unbalanced) regarding mother job and age and child age (p > 0.05) but it has significant difference regarding mother education (p = 0.009). Evaluation of the results of LBI and its different subscales indicated that the life balance at balanced or very balanced levels was not observed in any of the studied mothers, and they could be categorized in 2 groups of unbalanced (21 mothers ) and very unbalanced (29 mothers) (Table 2). Discussion: Based on the result of this study, mothers of Cerebral Palsy do not experience balanced life and this feeling of unbalance is related to the level of their child’s disability. Thus, it is necessary to consider this fact in family-centered evaluations and Occupational therapy interventions.
  

  Website 
• Opseth TM, Casrtensen T, Yazdani F, Ellingham B, Thørrisen MM, Bonsaksen T, 'Self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use among occupational therapy students in Norway'
  Cogent Education 4 (2017)
  ISSN: 2331-186X eISSN: 2331-186X
  Abstract

  Background: The intentional relationship model (IRM) proposes six distinct ways of relating to clients. A new instrument for measuring self-efficacy for using the therapeutic modes in occupational therapy practice was recently found to have good psychometric properties. To date, however, no research has investigated factors associated with self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use. Aim: This study aimed to explore sociodemographic and education-related factors associated with self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use in a sample of occupational therapy students in Norway. Methods: Occupational therapy students (n = 111) from two education programs completed the Norwegian version of the recently developed “Self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use” (N-SETMU), in addition to reporting sociodemographic and education-related information. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to examine factors independently associated with the students’ N-SETMU scores. Results: Higher N-SETMU scores were associated with better average academic performance among the students. Otherwise, none of the associations were statistically significant. Conclusions: As better academic results were linked with higher self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use, the study indicates that some students perform well academically and have high self-efficacy for practical skills, whereas others perform less well academically and have lower self-efficacy for practical skills. A potential transfer of self-efficacy beliefs from one area of performance (academic) to another (practical skills) seems possible, and this may be investigated in future studies.

  Website 
• Ghorbania N, Rassafiani M, SaraIzadi-Najafabadi, Yazdanie F, Akbarfahimi N, Havaei N, Gharebaghyh S, 'Effectiveness of cognitive orientation to (daily) occupational performance (CO-OP) on children with cerebral palsy: A mixed design'
  Research in Developmental Disabilities 71 (Dec. 2017) (2017) pp.24-34
  ISSN: 0891-4222
  Abstract Background. Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of physical disabilities during childhood. Therapeutic interventions mainly focus on impairment reduction to address motor-based difficulties. In contrast, Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) is a cognitive approach, providing intervention at the level of activity and participation.
  Aims. This study aims to determine whether the CO-OP approach improves motor skills and achievement in motor-based occupational performance goals in children with CP.
  Methods and procedures. In this mixed design research (i.e., a multiple baseline single case experimental design and a one-group pretest-posttest design), five children with CP participated in 12 CO-OP intervention sessions. Repeated measures of motor skills for the multiple baseline single case experimental design were taken using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP); pre- and post-measures of parent/child perception of performance and satisfaction were identified using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM); level of achievement was identified using Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS).
  Outcomes and results. According to the BOTMP results, all children were able to engage in the CO-OP intervention to improve motor performance. Significant differences after treatment were found in both performance and performance satisfaction ratings using the COPM as rated by parents and children. The GAS results showed progress in achievement levels for all children; all goals were achieved or exceeded.
  
  Conclusions and implications. CO-OP intervention can be helpful in improving motor skills and achieving self-identified, motor-based goals in children with CP.Website 
• Ritter V, Thørrisen M, Yazdani F, BonsaksenT, 'Further validation of the Norwegian Self-Efficacy for Therapeutic Mode Use'
  Occupational Therapy International 2017 (2017)
  ISSN: 0966-7903
  Abstract Background. The Intentional Relationship Model (IRM) proposes six therapeutic modes as ways of relating to clients. The Norwegian self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use (N-SETMU) was found to have a one-component structure. However, its items reflect abstract concepts rather than concrete behaviors. Aim. To validate further the N-SETMU by linking its items to the Norwegian client assessment of modes (N-CAM), with 30 items constituting six scales (linked to each mode), possessing concrete, behavioral content. Methods. Occupational therapy students () completed the N-SETMU and the N-CAM derived items, along with sociodemographic information. Component structure was analyzed with Principal Components Analysis (PCA), internal consistency of scales with Cronbach’s α, and associations between scale scores with Pearson’s . Results. All items on all N-CAM derived scales loaded on one latent component, except one item related to problem-solving. After removing this item, the scale functioned appropriately. Cronbach’s α for all N-CAM derived scales ranged 0.88–0.94, and the associations between the N-CAM derived scales and the corresponding N-SETMU items ranged between 0.60 (advocating) and 0.79 (encouraging). Conclusions. In view of the strong associations between the concrete, N-CAM derived scales and the abstract N-SETMU items, this study supports the concurrent validity of the N-SETMU.Website 
• Yazdani F, Harb A, Rassafiani M, Nobakht L, Yazdani N, 'Occupational therapists’ perception of the concept of occupational balance'
  Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy 25 (4) (2017) pp.288-297
  ISSN: 1103-8128 eISSN: 1651-2014
  Abstract
  Introduction: Occupational balance is one of the concepts used by occupational therapists with no consensus on its definition. Literature demonstrates different perspectives when this concept is applied in practice and in its link to other concepts such as health and well-being. This study aims to explore how the concept of occupational balance is perceived and practised by occupational therapy practitioners.
   
  Method: A qualitative methodology was employed. Fourteen occupational therapists volunteered for the study. Nine occupational therapy practitioners were interviewed individually and five attended a focus group. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data.
   
  Results: Six themes were identified as follows: (1) occupational balance: what it is; (2) how occupational balance is formed; (3) occupational balance and well-being (4); subjective and objective representations of occupational balance (5); what disrupts/affects occupational balance; and (6) occupational balance/imbalance and occupational therapy practice.
   
  Conclusions: Both objective and subjective experiences of occupational balance need to be considered in order to make an informed decision in practice. The right occupational balance for each individual should be based on his/her values but with consideration of the principal of no harm to others.
  Website 
• Yazdani F, Bonsaksen T, 'Introduction to the Model of Occupational Wholeness'
  Ergoscience 12 (1) (2017) pp.32-36
  ISSN: 1861-6348
  Abstract Occupational balance has always been the concern of occupational science and occupational therapy scholars. Although the concept has been addressed diversely in the literature, the focus of occupational science in particular has been on the four dimensions of occupation: doing, being, becoming and belonging. However, the relationship between these dimensions has not been addressed fully. This paper presents how the authors began by reviewing the literature and researching the concept of occupational balance, before devising the concept of occupational wholeness. The findings of this research have led to the introduction of the Model of Occupational Wholeness, which illustrates the relationship between doing and being, becoming and belonging
   
  Website 
• Hayden R, Yazdani F, 'Stroke patients experiences of weekend days spent on a stroke unit: a descriptive phenomenological analysis'
  International Journal of Therapies and Rehabilitation Research 5 (5) (2016) pp.89-93
  ISSN: 2278-0343
  Abstract Large amounts of quantitative data about stroke care are being collected in National Stroke Audits, but at present there is little information about how patients themselves experience this care, information that is important when designing patient-centred services. This study aimed to explore weekend days on a stroke unit from the patients’ perspective. In-depth interviews were conducted with four stroke inpatients, and the interview data was transcribed and analysed using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Although each patient’s experience was individual, some common themes occured. The main theme was the perception of inactivity, with various subcategories within this, namely boredom, influence of other people, visitors and needing time to rest. Three other smaller themes were also identified: frustration, a reluctance to criticise ward staff, and changing perceptions of weekend days as patients progressed through their rehabilitation. These results are discussed and implications for practice are suggested.Website 
• Yazdani F, Carstensen T, Bonsaksen T, 'Therapeutic mode preferences and associated factors among Norwegian undergraduate occupational therapy students: A cross-sectional exploratory study'
  Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy 24 (2) (2016) pp.136-142
  ISSN: 1103-8128
  Abstract Background: The Intentional Relationship Model is specifically focused on the relational aspect of therapy. The model describes six therapeutic modes; these represent different types of interaction for the therapist. However, preferences for therapeutic mode use are under researched.
   
  Aims: This study aims to describe preferences for therapeutic modes in undergraduate occupational therapy students, as well as to explore factors associated to each of the therapeutic modes.
   
  Methods: A sample of 96 occupational therapy students, based at two different Norwegian universities, participated in the study. They completed the Norwegian Self-Assessment of Modes Questionnaire along with sociodemographic information. Descriptive analysis, bivariate correlation and linear regression analysis were employed.
   
  Results: The problem-solving mode was most frequently endorsed. There were generally weak associations between the variables, but female sex and being a student in the education program in Trondheim were associated with higher preference for collaboration.
   
  Conclusion: There is diversity in students’ preferences for the modes, but the problem-solving mode was the most preferred. Students need to be aware of the mode they feel more comfortable with and make sure they use modes that fit with the specific client.
   
  Significance: The occupational therapy education programs need to incorporate raising awareness about therapeutic modes.
  Website 
• Rezaie L, Khazaie H, Yazdani F, 'Exploration of the experience of living with chronic insomnia: A qualitative study'
  Sleep Science 9 (3) (2016) pp.179-185
  ISSN: 1984-0659
  Abstract Background. Chronic insomnia is associated with consequential experience that may affect quality of life. Understanding such experience can be helpful in planning effective interventions for patients with chronic insomnia.
  Objective. The study aimed to describe and illuminate the experience of living with chronic insomnia. Method. The study was conducted using a descriptive phenomenology approach. Participants were selected purposefully from patients with chronic insomnia who had been referred to the sleep disorders research center at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences in Iran in 2014. Data were gathered through in-depth unstructured interviews and analyzed according to the Colaizzi method by means of Husserlian phenomenology. Results.Two main themes were found in this study, from which five sub themes were constructed: first, an upset mind, with the subthemes of insomnia as an unpleasant experience and insomnia as a worrying experience; and second, an unwanted new lifestyle with treatment seeking behavior, a boring new daily routine and being overshadowed by depressed mood as the subthemes. Conclusion. The study identified the experience of living with chronic insomnia as a painful one with both mental and practical aspects. The experience also explains how mental engagement and practical outcomes of chronic insomnia may interfere with well-being and quality of life in sufferers. It is recommended that patients' experiences would be considered in assessment and treatment of chronic insomnia. Therefore, therapeutic interventions should pay attention to this area.
  Website 
• Hosseini SM, Asgari A, Rassafiani M, Yazdani F, Mazdeh M, 'Leisure time activities of Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study'
  Health Promotion Perspectives 6 (1) (2016) pp.47-53
  ISSN: 2228-6497
  Abstract Background: Leisure time is one of the most important aspects of life, especially for people with chronic diseases. The concept and types of leisure have frequently been evaluated in different socio-cultural populations. The aim of this study was to identify the nature of leisure activities among a sample of Iranian patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and classify the identified types of activities in the context of Iranian culture.
   
  Methods: In this qualitative study, semi-structured interview was applied to gather data from 34 MS patients that were selected through purposive sampling. The interviews were continued up to the point of saturation. Content analysis was used to explore experiences of the interviewees regarding their leisure activities.
   
  Results: Six categories of leisure activities were extracted for the studied patients with MS i.e.physical, social, individual, art/cultural, educational and spiritual/religious.
   
  Conclusion: The results represented the range and heterogeneity of leisure activities amongst the MS patients. Considering participation in spiritual/religious and social activities as leisure time undertaking might reflect cultural diversity in the perception and use of time for recreation. For mental health promotion purposes, paying special attention to the types of activities that people of different socio-cultural background choose for their refreshment could help health care providers in giving tailored advice for patients with MS and other chronic debilitating disease.
  Website 
• Nobakht L, Yazdani F, 'Using Parent Assessment of Child Occupation (PACO) alongside the Child Occupational Self-Assessmen (COSA): feasibility study'
  International Journal of Therapies and Rehabilitation Research 5 (3) (2016) pp.1-5
  ISSN: 2278-0343
  Abstract Objective. Although, Literature shows the significant role of parents in children’s lives, there have not been any studies carried out on the parents’ occupational assessments of their children. Materials and Methods: A modified version of the Child Occupational Self Awareness (COSA) was created (Parents Assessment of Child Occupational, PACO) to assess the parents’ assessment of their child’s occupation. This feasibility study aimed at identifying the practical and potential issues of applying the COSA alongside PACO. As well as testing the value of identifying the similarity of discrepancies between parents (here mothers) and their children in assessing a child’s occupational life. For this purpose, a convenient sample of 30 primary students aged between 9-10 years old, and their mothers were chosen. Results. The content analysis of the COSA and PACO besides the supplementary information gathered by the interviewer showed factors which need to be considered in the main future study. Conclusion. The findings indicate how mothers and their children have different interpretations of a child’s competency and values in carrying out some aspects of occupation. There are some considerations with reference to the environment and related items of the tool, scoring, and administration which need to be addressed in planning for the main study. Website 
• Yazdani N, Yazdani F, Nobakht L, '"Reflective self-awareness exercise; steps towards changing students’ attitudes towards disability"'
  International Journal of Therapies and Rehabilitation Research 5 (2) (2016) pp.25-29
  ISSN: 2278-0343
  Abstract

  The aim of this study was to explore the changes in students attitudes regarding disability after attending the module ‘Disability: theories, nature and experiences’ designed around reflective self-awareness exercises. Literature indicates enhanced knowledge does not automatically lead to changes in attitude. Health care professionals are the most significant people to instil hope in their clients to pursue a happy life. As advocates for people with disability, health care professionals need themselves to believe that people with disability can pursue a happy life as abled bodied people do. Researchers aimed to explore the impact of the ‘Disability’ module using discussion and reflective exercises, on students’ way of thinking about and changes in attitude towards disability. Students were asked to write stories at the beginning and after completing the module. A thematic analysis was applied to identify the students’ way of communicating their thoughts and feelings about disable bodied /disability before and after the module. Three major themes were identified to represent the differences before and after attending the module: problem /solution oriented approach towards perceived problems, separating/ integrating disable/able bodied, passive/ active role of disable bodied and society.

  Website 
• Esmaili S, Shafaroodi N, Hassani Mehraban A, Parand A, Qorbani M, Yazdani F, Mahmoudpour A, 'Prevalence of Psychiatric Symptoms and Mental Health Services in Students with Specific Learning Disabilities in Tehran, Iran'
  International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction 14 (4) (2015) pp.438-448
  ISSN: 1557-1874
  Abstract

  Children with specific learning disabilities are at a greater risk of mental health problems than their non-disabled peers. Further interventions and research will be required. This is a cross-sectional study. A sample of 107 students (7 to 11 years old) with specific learning disabilities were randomly selected from educational and rehabilitation settings in Tehran. The Child Symptom Inventory-4 (CSI-4) (parent checklist) was administered. Among children studied, 86 subjects (82.8 %) in some of the categories of psychiatric symptoms gained scores above the cut-off point. The most prevalent psychiatric symptoms were related to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. There were not any statistically significant differences between the genders. In addition to direct education, 15 subjects (14 %) were receiving medication, 2 subjects (1.9 %) were receiving only occupational therapy, 2 subjects (1.9 %) were receiving only speech therapy, and 5 subjects (4.7 %) were receiving both occupational and speech therapy. The emphasis on considering co-morbid symptoms and usage of mental health services are important issues for students with specific learning difficulties.

  Website 
• Esmaili SK, Shafaroodi N, Mehraban AH, Parand A, Qorbani M, Yazdani F, Mahmoudpour A, 'Prevalence of Psychiatric Symptoms and Mental Health Services in Students with Specific Learning Disabilities in Tehran, Iran'
  International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction 14 (2015) pp.438-448
  ISSN: 1557-1874
  Abstract

  Children with specific learning disabilities are at a greater risk of mental health problems than their non-disabled peers. Further interventions and research will be required. This is a cross-sectional study. A sample of 107 students (7 to 11 years old) with specific learning disabilities were randomly selected from educational and rehabilitation settings in Tehran. The Child Symptom Inventory-4 (CSI-4) (parent checklist) was administered. Among children studied, 86 subjects (82.8 %) in some of the categories of psychiatric symptoms gained scores above the cut-off point. The most prevalent psychiatric symptoms were related to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. There were not any statistically significant differences between the genders. In addition to direct education, 15 subjects (14 %) were receiving medication, 2 subjects (1.9 %) were receiving only occupational therapy, 2 subjects (1.9 %) were receiving only speech therapy, and 5 subjects (4.7 %) were receiving both occupational and speech therapy. The emphasis on considering co-morbid symptoms and usage of mental health services are important issues for students with specific learning difficulties.
  

  Website 
• Farzad M, Asgari A, Layeghi F, Yazdani F, Hosseini SA, Rassafiani M, Kus S, 'Exploring the Relation Between Impairment Rating by AMA Guide and Activity and Participation Based on ICF in the Patients with Hand Injuries'
  Journal of Hand and Microsurgery 7 (2) (2015) pp.261-267
  ISSN: 0974-3227
  Abstract The aim of this paper is to analyze the relation between components of disability with distinguished score of impairment, activity and participation questionnaire based on clinical data of persons with hand injuries. Impairment was evaluated by use of AMA guide 6th edition and disability by DASH questionnaire on Convenience sample of patients (N = 117), with chronic hand injuries. Linking and allocating items of the DASH were done based on the ICF Core Set for Hand Conditions and the opinions of a group of experts from different related fields. Data was analyses by using Kappa index, Chi square test and a set of Pearson, Part and Partial correlations coefficient. Most of the DASH items were allocated to the activity; one to four of the items could not be classified and 0 to 22 were classified as having overlap. Participation and activity scores correlated positively with each other (r > 0.80). Impairment had high correlation with activity and participation scores (>73). With controlling the effect of each or both construct, this relation between them with impairment diminished but still significant between activity and impairment. There is a huge overlap in definition of activity and participation. The most effecting item in relation of disability and impairment is activity restriction. Participation had no relation with impairment.Website 
• Yazdani F, Roberts D, Yazdani N, Rassafiani M, 'Occupational Balance: a study of the socio-cultural perspective of Iranian Occupational Therapists'
  Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy 83 (1) (2015) pp.53-62
  ISSN: 0008-4174
  Abstract Background. The concept of occupational balance has always been important to occupational therapists and occupational scientists, but it is often interpreted differently by professionals, particularly in relation to practice.
  
  Purpose. This study focused on the understanding of occupational balance of a group of experienced occupational therapists who held positions at the time in Iran.
   
  Method. A preliminary qualitative study from within an interpretive paradigm was employed. A focus group was used for data collection, and the data were analyzed using thematic networks analysis in relation to occupational science concepts.
   
  Findings. Four organizing themes were uncovered: integrity in being, equilibrium in doing, contentedness in becoming, and harmony in belonging. The global theme of “fluidity” describes the dynamic nature of occupational balance.
   
  Implications. The concept of occupational balance needs to be further explored in different communities. Identifying similarities and differences in its meaning and application will inform culturally relevant client-centred education and practice.
  Website 
• Yazdani F, 'The triad of community group, politics and religion in forming the ‘professional self’'
  Philosophical Practice 9 (1) (2014) pp.1336-1343
  ISSN: 1742-8173 eISSN: 1742-8181
  Abstract There is huge emphasis on the therapeutic use of 'self' in therapy and counselling. However, the issue of culture in establishing self does not seem to have been addressed in the literature. This paper presents some examples of cultural issues in the use of self as a tool in developing the therapeutic relationship. The author brings examples of her experience of training students in two countries, Iran and Jordan, to develop skills to use self as a therapeutic tool. The author draws attention to the differences between personal and professional self, as well as to professional identity. Culture is seen as a triad of religion, politics, and community to discuss the shared cognition that is developed in societies when processing issues and dealing with them.

Book chapters

• Yazdani F, 'Owning Occupational Therapy Theories and Concepts: Wearing Your Own Coat!' in Sakellariou D, Pollard N (ed.), Occupational Therapies Without Borders: integrating justice with practice, Elsevier (2017)
  ISBN: 9780702059209 eISBN: 9780702065101
  Abstract Section 2. Chapter 10Website 

Reviews

• Yazdani F, review of Helping Students Overcome Depression and Anxiety, in Educational Review 61 (2010) pp.353-354ISSN: 0013-1911
  
• Yazdani F, Williams C, review of Aspects of Education in the Middle East and North Africa, in Educational Review 62 (2010) pp.362-363ISSN: 0013-1911
  
• Yazdani F, review of Neurodiversity in Higher Education: Positive Responses to Specific Learning Differences, in Educational Review 62 (2010) pp.492-493ISSN: 0013-1911
  

Areas of expertise

Therapeutic reasoning, Therapeutic use of self, Children and mental health OT, cultur, diversity and their implication in practice, qualitative study design; focus group, indepth interviewing, thematic analysis

Membership of professional bodies

WFOT

RCOT

Consultancy

Iran Medical University PhD thesis 

Conferences

Family routines of adolescents with an Autism Spectrum Disorder: a literature review Jun 2016

COT 2016 Roseanna Tuohy, Farzaneh Yazdani

OCCUPATIONAL BALANCE: PERSPECTIVES OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS NORTH WEST LONDON  Jun 2016   COTEC-ENOTE 2016  Farzaneh YazdaniNastaran YazdaniLaya NobakhtAlia Harb

PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE OCCUPATIONALTHERAPY PSYCHOSOCIAL ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING (OTPAL) IN STUDENTS AGE 6-9 IN IRAN Jun 2016 COTEC-ENOTE 2016 Sima Khadivjam. Ali AsgariFarzaneh Yazdani

EXPLORING THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING ACTIVITY AND PARTICIPATION PATTERN OF CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY: A CRITICAL REVIEW Jun 2016 COTEC-ENOTE 2016 Fawaz AlrasheediFarzaneh Yazdani

PERCIEVED POTENTIAL FOR A ROLE FOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN GENERAL PRACTICE IN ENGLAND OR EQUIVALENT IN OTHER COUNTRIES' Jun 2016 COTEC-ENOTE 2016 Morag Nicolle, Farzaneh Yazdani

STROKE PATIENTS EXPERIENCES OF WEEKEND DAYS SPENT ON A STROKE UNIT: A DESCRIPTIVE PHENOMENOLOGICAL ANALYSIS Jun 2016 COTEC-ENOTE 2016 Rachel HaydenFarzaneh Yazdani

Occupational therapists’ perception of occupational balance and experience of its application in practice Jun 2016 COTE 2016 Farzaneh Yazdani

Shift towards spiral curriculum: integration of the Model of Human Occupation across the Occupational Therapy UG course Oct 2015 The 4th International Institute on the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) Farzaneh Yazdani

History of the Model of Human Occupation in Iran and its expansion to the Middle East Oct 2015 the 4th International Institute on the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) Farzaneh Yazdani

Occupational therapy from 'Birth till Today' Oct 2014 Iran National OT Conference Farzaneh Yazdani

Functional Gains and Social Reintegration in Community Stroke Rehabilitation May 2014 XXIII European Stroke Conference 6 – 9 May 2014  Nur Shafawati Kamsani  Farzaneh Yazdani

Global, International and Local factors in establishing and developing a profession Jun 2013 Therapy and Empowerment – Coercion and Punishment Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on Labour and Occupational Therapy International Research Symposium, 26–27 June 2013 Farzaneh Yazdani

A comparison of children's and mothers' perception of children's occupational adaptation Oct 2012 Third international institute on the model of human occupation Laya NobakhtFarzaneh Yazdani

Developing and using the ‘professional self’ in multi-cultural health-care contexts May 2012 COTEC, Occupational Diversity 2012 Farzaneh Yazdani

MOHO in Iran: The concept of occupation in Persian culture May 2012 COTEC, Occupational Diversity 2012 Farzaneh Yazdani

Other experience

Occupational therapy lecturer and practitioner 1994-2000  Iran University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences 

Establisher, assistant professor and head of department of the OT department at the University of Jordan 2000-2008

I did my BSc in Occupational Therapy at the Iran Medical Sciences University. My MSc, also taken in Iran, concentrated on psychosocial aspects of OT, and to develop my interest in mental health further I also took an MA in Psychological and Educational Counselling at the University of Jordan.

My PhD research explored the relationship between life style and wellbeing among students at the University of Jordan, utilising the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO). This research was co-supervised by Professor Gary Keilhofner of the University of Illinois, USA, where I was given a position as visiting scholar. I was then designated as the MOHO representative for the Middle East.

I started my work as lecturer and clinical supervisor of students in the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences in Tehran, in 1995. I subsequently developed the first Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Jordan.

Currently the focus of my research is on the model I have developed based on my research, developing questionnaire based on the model, studying its properties, testing the utility of the model. The model is about the 3Bs(being, becoming, belonging) of doing to help rethinking and replanning life to achieve Occupational Wholeness. 

https://www.researchgate.net/project/The-Model-of-Occupational-Wholeness

Further information

Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile.ProfileStatsImprovementSuggestions.html