Enacted togetherness–A concept to understand occupation as socio-culturally situated

Abstract

Background: This paper is in line with the on-going discussion of a theoretical re-orientation towards acknowledging the socio-cultural dimensions of occupation. Aim: To define enacted togetherness as a concept and share our understandings of how this concept can add to the understanding of occupation as socio-culturally situated. Method and material: The concept enacted togetherness emerged from empirical findings of a larger research project with older adults living with late-life depression. Informed by a transactional understanding of occupation and a narrative approach, the concept emerged as a contextually situated process holding qualities and potential as a source of meaning-making. Findings: Enacted togetherness as described herein has a clear association to occupation in terms of doing activities together. We reflect on enacted togetherness as a process of meaning-making, connecting people and places through unfolding stories; as an arena where togetherness and belonging can be created; and as a space for interpretation, providing opportunities to negotiate issues of meaning that can lead to possibilities for change. Conclusion: The concept of enacted togetherness can contribute to the ongoing discussion of a theoretical reorientation towards understanding socio-cultural dimensions of occupation. Significance: Enacted togetherness is a concept that can contribute to occupational therapy and occupational science as it adds to an understanding of the qualities and potentials inherent in engagement in occupations with others.