What was one of the significant effects of World War II on occupational therapy?

One of the significant effects of World War II on occupational therapy was the increase in the number of OT practitioners. The war created a substantial need for rehabilitation services for returning soldiers who had sustained injuries and disabilities. As a result, there was a growing recognition of the importance of occupational therapy in helping veterans recover and reintegrate into civilian life.

This increase in demand led to the expansion of educational programs related to occupational therapy, which in turn produced more qualified practitioners. The war highlighted the essential role of occupational therapy in not just physical rehabilitation but also in the psychological adjustment of individuals after traumatic experiences. This recognition laid the foundation for the growth and professional development of the field in the following decades, establishing occupational therapy as a vital part of the healthcare system.