Perspectives Winter/Spring 2018

Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences 39 The researchers conducted a series of passive saliva secretion measures; increased or decreased salivary cortisol reflects an individual’s stress level. Pre- and post-anxiety levels were measured using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory–Adult Version (STAI). Additionally, the study gathered phenomeno- logical information regarding the lived experience of ikebana occupation using a self-report structured interview. Additionally, cortisol levels were analyzed on qualifying sali- vary samples. From the four samples, the three that occurred before the intervention revealed results that suggested that cortisol levels were lower after participation than the level before. Possibly, an increased number of participants could have shown significance. A follow-up of this pilot study is planned to accomplish this. On the other hand, the STAI—the research instrument that measured the participant’s state of anxiety—showed a significant relationship between pre- and post-anxiety state. This means there was a significantly lower anxiety level reported after intervention when compared to before the intervention occurred. The research team used a semi-structured individual interview to collect qualitative data on the participant’s experience of ikebana. This is the most appropriate qualitative approach to gather information and understand the phenomenological as- pect of ikebana participation from the subjects’ perspectives. Interviews consisted of 7 open-ended questions and lasted for 5 to 10 minutes, recorded with permission, and later transcribed and examined collaboratively to code determined themes. Phenomenological interviews produced themes related to doing, being, and becoming. The study hoped to gain insight into human occupation and what makes it valuable in promoting well-being. The research study looked specifically at an occupation called ikebana, focusing on its impact on stress and anxiety. The study aims to contribute knowledge in occupational science and occupational therapy that links occupational engagement and physiology with the phenomenon of human doing, being, and becoming. ● From left, Shannon Taylor, Gustavo A. Reinoso, and Kristin Cinco inspect the cortisol tool kits and code the materials to match the research subjects’ codes for the project prior to harvest of salivary secretions for analysis by Salimetrics. *The research team in alphabetical order: Ricardo C. Carrasco, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, program director and professor of the Entry-Level Doctor of Occu- pational Therapy Program; Kristin Cinco, O.T.D., OTR/L, NSU alumna; Chrystal Key, O.T.D., OTR/L, NSU alumna; Gustavo Reinoso, Ph.D., OTR/L, assistant professor and director of technology; Susan Stallings-Sahler, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, professor and director of research; and Shannon Taylor, O.T.D., OTR/L, NSU alumna. The full research article of this pilot project is in progress.