Occupational science is an interdisciplinary field in the social and behavioral sciences dedicated to the study of humans as occupational beings. As used here, the term "occupation" refers to the goal-directed activities that characterize human time use over the span of each day and over the course of lifetimes. Occupational science was founded in 1989 by Elizabeth Yerxa at the University of Southern California, and was based on the earlier works of Mary Reilly . Occupational science now includes university-based academic programs leading to undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. Disciplines within which occupational scientists can be found include architecture, engineering, education, marketing, psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, occupational therapy, leisure science, public health, and geography. There are several national, regional and international societies dedicated to promoting the evolution of this specialized area of human science. Academic journals containing content relevant to occupational science include the Journal of Occupational Science, OTJR: Occupation, Participation and Health, and various occupational therapy journals.
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