Occupational therapists’ perceptions of the relationship between gravitational insecurity, emotion regulation and functioning in adult mental health settings: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Purpose Gravitational insecurity (GI) is characterised by a significant fear of movement that is disproportionate to the level of threat and any deficiencies in postural control. It has been suggested to lead to increased anxiety and barriers within everyday activities. Limited insight is available into how this difficulty may present in adults, specifically those with mental health conditions. This study aims to consider occupational therapists’ perceptions on how GI may alter emotional regulation and functioning in this population. Design/methodology/approach Six occupational therapists working with mental health clients were recruited using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were completed and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Findings Four main themes were identified: a real lack of understanding; making the connection; alterations in relationships; and supporting recovery. Occupational therapists suggested that GI can be evident in barriers within functional performance and increased emotional dysregulation, but that its presence could be missed or misinterpreted because of limited awareness among professionals and confounding factors such as medication. Originality/value Findings provide initial insight into occupational therapists’ perceptions of GI in adults with mental health conditions. While much further research is needed, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to explore GI in this way and may offer insights to support occupational therapists in developing their clinical reasoning in this area.