Purpose: A major paradigm shift regarding queer issues occurred over the last 5 years. In Ireland and America equal marriage became a constitutional right (Irish Times, 2015; New York Times, 2016). Media representation of transgender people has increased; “Transparent” “Orange is the New Black”, and “The Danish Girl”. Transgender celebrities have become “du-jour” and their visage commonplace. Trans-actress Laverne Cox graced the cover of Time magazine (2014) and in Ireland, Panti Bliss, a self-titled “gender-discombobulist” (O’Neill, 2014), appeared as the epitomic image of evolving LGBT equality. Within the political sphere transgender rights have drawn attention, with much debate surrounding so-called “bathroom bills” in various American states. House Bill 2 in North Carolina (Washington Post, 2017) raises concerns of political and societal discrimination; and is of relevance in terms of occupational injustices. This explosion of gender related discourses draws attention to the complex and nuanced meaning of gender and occupations. This study explores the concept of gender and how it manifests within occupational research.

Research Methods: A scoping review of gender in occupational science and occupational therapy is in process. The methodology is informed by a framework consolidated by Arksey and O’Malley (2002) and enhanced by Levac et al. (2010). Thirty-five search terms were identified. Databases were selected according to relevant journal subscriptions. Duplicated information was eliminated. Information was independently reviewed for inclusion. Disagreements were settled by majority consensus. Data charting was an iterative process and variables to extract were determined by the research team. Information and resulting themes and findings will be documented for dissemination.

Results: Tentative results indicate themes and specific issues including, among others, gender as a social construct, gender ideologies, division of labour, transitions, societal and cultural impact on occupations as well as evolving concepts and understanding of identity and occupational choice.

Implications to occupational science: Gender is more than an influence on occupation; it is produced through occupation (Beagan and Saunders, 2005). It is envisioned this study will illuminate gaps and trends regarding gender in occupational literature. This study will contribute information concerning complex and nuanced interplay entrenched in the reciprocity between gender and occupation. Contributions will be made to the gender dialogue by promoting a more inclusive consideration towards non-binary concepts of gender within occupational literature. This study can potentially contribute to research surrounding intersectional gender issues in occupational research.

Discussion questions to further occupational science concepts and ideas: What are the OS/OT discourses on gender?