Ecology of Human Performance (EHP)
Person:
Left arm amputation above the elbow (still has strong balance, coordination, and mentality)
Motivation
Faith
Identity as a surfer
Context:
Ocean and surfboard
Family, friends, coaches, surfing community (emotional and reality support)
Christian mindset (faith and values determine her coping strategies/goals)
Task:
Surfing as an occupation (her passion drove her rehabilitation)
Modified techniques (new ways to paddle, duck dive (handle on board), and work with one arm)
Performance:
Resume to competitive surfing
Expanding roles (broadening her occupational identity)
Intervention Strategies using EHP
Establish/Restore:
Strengthening her remaining arm and core muscles to have Bethany continue with what she loves to do (surfing)
Surf-specific drills: Practicing pop-ups, wave timing, and balance techniques tailored to her new physical abilities
Create:
Promoting new roles and opportunities for Bethany beyond surfing
Engaging in media and outreach: Participating in interviews, documentaries, and public events to inspire others
Creating inclusive surf programs: She could help launch adaptive surfing clinics or camps for others with disabilities
“I wouldn't change what happened to me because then I wouldn't have this chance, in front of all of you, to embrace more people than I ever could have with two arms.”
- Bethany Hamilton
Why Did We Choose This Model?
In this model, human performance is shaped by the interaction between the individual, their environment, and the tasks they engage in. Bethany's story involves changes in her physical capabilities, but her environment and personal strength push her to re-emerge in surfing (occupation). For Bethany, it is very important to look at her within her context, as her context is such a huge part of her identity. Her physical context (access to adaptive equipment), social context (family, friends, and community), and cultural context (shared Christian values and a surfing lifestyle) all played crucial roles in shaping her performance and participation. Choosing EHP is perfect because it focuses on individualized interventions based on the client.
Cole, Marilyn B., and Roseanna Tufano. “Ecology of Human Performance.” Applied Theories in Occupational Therapy, 2nd ed., Routledge, 2020, pp. 155–63, https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003522591-11.
Dunn, W., Brown, C., McGuigan, A. (1994). The Ecology of Human Performance: A framework for considering the effect of context. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 48(7). 595-607.