Research on the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance Approach: A Bibliometric Review

Abstract Importance: The Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) is an evidence-based intervention approach that has significantly increased in popularity over the past two decades. However, how the research literature on this topic is patterned is still unknown, so it is difficult to identify potential areas for research and clinical interest. Aims: To analyze the literature published on the CO-OP approach to provide a detailed and structured analysis of the publication patterns. Data Sources: All literature related to CO-OP included in the Web of Science database through June 15, 2024. Study Selection and Data Collection: All published studies related to CO-OP were included in the bibliometric analysis, which was conducted on the raw data retrieved from the Web of Science database using the Bibliometrix R package. Findings: The annual growth rate in CO-OP research has been 0.8%, significantly increasing from 2015 onward. Most of the research has been published in occupational therapy and rehabilitation journals by English-speaking research teams, and its scope has expanded from developmental coordination disorder to a wide range of health conditions. In addition, two main lines of research have emerged: one focusing on understanding the underlying cognitive processes involved in CO-OP and the other focusing on its clinical effectiveness. Conclusions and Relevance: Research on CO-OP has significantly increased over the past decade, and it currently encompasses a wide range of areas. This analysis may facilitate the advancement of research on and the clinical practical application of CO-OP. Plain-Language Summary: The Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) is an evidence-based intervention approach that has significantly increased in popularity over the past two decades. Occupational therapists use it to improve the occupational performance of both children and adults with movement difficulties. However, it is unknown how the research literature on this topic is patterned, so it is difficult to identify potential areas for research and clinical interest. This study found that scientific literature on CO-OP has significantly increased in the past decade and that its scope has expanded from developmental coordination disorder to a wider range of health conditions, such as cerebral palsy. Moreover, research is now focused on two main questions: What are the underlying cognitive processes involved during intervention, and how effective is the CO-OP approach? These findings can be used to further improve occupational performance and participation among occupational therapy clients who struggle with motor performance and planning.