What marked the "birth" of the occupational therapy profession?

The establishment of the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy is recognized as a significant milestone in the history of the occupational therapy profession because it represented the formal organization of individuals who were committed to creating and promoting the role of occupational therapy as a distinct and essential field within healthcare. This society, founded in 1917, was instrumental in bringing together professionals who shared a vision for the therapeutic use of everyday activities to help individuals regain their health and independence.

The formation of this society also laid the groundwork for the development of standards, education, and professional recognition for occupational therapy. It helped to unify practitioners and establish the profession's identity, which was crucial for its growth and acceptance in the broader medical community.

While the American Occupational Therapy Association's formation, the introduction of occupational therapy courses in medical schools, and the first publication of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy are all important historical events in the evolution of the profession, they came after the establishment of the National Society and were part of the ongoing development of the field rather than its initial "birth."