Dr. Debbie Laliberte Rudman

Biography

Professor Debbie Laliberte Rudman is a Distinguished University Professor at the School of Occupational Therapy, Western University. Her research primarily focuses on the theoretical, substantive, and methodological development of occupational science and occupational therapy. She utilizes critically-oriented qualitative approaches to examine the everyday occupations and identities of individuals and collectives, particularly those groups experiencing social and economic marginalization. Her work critically analyzes socio-political discourses that shape social issues and occupational possibilities, with particular emphasis on long-term unemployment, precarious aging, and occupational inequities. Professor Rudman is dedicated to raising awareness of the implications of policy on social occupational issues and advocates for participatory and collaborative approaches to expand occupational possibilities and reduce inequities. She has supervised numerous graduate students and is currently accepting MSc and PhD students. Her ongoing research involves intersections of place, occupation, and the social inclusion/exclusion of precarious workers. Additionally, she has held various prestigious keynote lectures and serves on editorial boards and committees related to occupational science and therapy.

Research Interests