The Volitional Subsystem
The volitional process involves anticipating, experiencing, choosing, and interpreting occupational behavior (Kielhofner, 2008). This system serves to direct and energize the other subsystems toward desired goals. However, this motivating force is highly influenced by the other subsystems (state of fatigue, habitual patterns), as well as external circumstances. Cultural common sense defines one’s perceptions of oneself and one’s environment and creates the context for occupational choices. Choices for occupation can be immediate (activities for today) or long term (career choices, committed relationships). The three main components of this subsystem are personal causation, values, and interests. Personal causation refers to a belief in oneself and is related to feelings of competence. A healthy individual is thought to possess needed skills (sense of personal capacity) and to believe him- or herself to be capable of using these skills to have a desired effect on the environment (self-efficacy). A person who believes in him- or herself expects to succeed through the use of his or her own abilities. A person who lacks a sense of personal causation may feel that what happens is controlled by fate or external circumstance. Such a person feels helpless to cope with the functional problems resulting from illness and disability. Values in the MOHO refer to the meaningfulness of activities. Individuals are thought to spend time doing activities that have meaning and are thought to be good or morally right. For example, if a student thinks that having a college degree is good, he or she may work very hard at reading, writing, and studying, activities that will help him or her achieve that goal. Clients often find themselves unable to perform activities that they consider to be important or meaningful, such as going back to work. A reprioritizing of values might be an intervention goal. Using this model, clients can find alternate ways to perform a work role that are within their capabilities. Interests in this model are defined as tendencies to find certain occupations attractive and pleasurable. If a person enjoys a particular activity, he or she may be inclined to participate in it frequently or for longer periods of time. Interests are related to work, play, and self-care activities and are not limited to recreational endeavors. Occupational choices are highly influenced by the activities one finds attractive. A healthy individual uses his or her interests to guide present action and to plan the use of time. A person lacking in interests may need help in exploring his or her environment and in finding pleasure in activities. In summary, the volitional subsystem guides the occupational behavior of the individual in ways that are meaningful and pleasurable and are likely to have a desired effect on the environment.