KAWA Model

Theorist

Research

Evaluation

Function/Dysfunction

Change/Motivation

Intervention Guidelines

Focus

Often used in Eastern cultures

River metaphor

Water: life flow

Rocks: life circumstances and problems

Vary in size and impede flow

Driftwood: personal assets and liabilities

Help or hinder flow

River Banks: external environmental factor

effect of social factors or relationships

Spaces between elements

Opportunities

Iwama

Naturalistic studies in Japan

Function: greater speed in water can represent greater health and well-being

Dysfunction: a collective experience; illness or health condition does not create a disability

Change: occupations are method of change

Engage in meaningful occupations

Motivation: need to be accepted and belong in a community/society

Clients drawing of their kawa

Identify elements of the individual

Respect traditions of social status and convention

Education

Group interventions

Often used in Japan or other Eastern cultures/countries