Application of the Experience Sampling Method to Assess Clients' Daily Experiences

Authors

  • Judith E Voelkl
  • Richard C Birkel

Keywords:

Flow, Experience Sampling Method, Assessment

Abstract

The findings of this exploratory study support the use of the experience sampling method (ESM) to assess the daily experiences of older adults residing in a long term care facility. While participating in the ESM assessment, clients reported their location, activity, thoughts, companionship, and mood at several random times each day for four to six days. The data allowed for the tracking o fclients' affect, involvement, motivation, and choice in daily tasks and the identification of flow and non-flow experiences. The information from the assessment has implications for treatment. Specifically, it provides information on individual client's experiences of flow or positive affect which naturally occur in the institutional environment, and which may be incorporated into therapeutic recreation treatment plans.

Published

1988-07-01

Issue

Section

Regular Papers