Abstract
The activity of model building is central to any scientific practice. As scientific models mediate between theory and the real world, there is a constant need to revise the patterns of evidence and the methodologies employed by scientists to arrive at theoretical representations that guide a particular scientific practice. This chapter presents an overview of our knowledge evolution in conceptualizing work disability from various viewpoints. A historical perspective is presented with descriptions of conceptual models from the past that have influenced our understanding of work disability of today. Also contemporary models that explain the person–environment interaction are described and discussed in relation to their implications for return to work and prevention of work disability. In line with recent patterns of evidence for prevention of work disability, a few premises for the development of a new model are presented. These premises represent important contemporary issues supported by research and practice confirmed by various stakeholder groups including scientists, practitioners, employers, insurers, and workers themselves.
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Notes
- 1.
Defined as the combination of circumstances at a given moment; a state of affairs (Oxford dictionary).
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Costa-Black, K.M., Feuerstein, M., Loisel, P. (2013). Work Disability Models: Past and Present. In: Loisel, P., Anema, J. (eds) Handbook of Work Disability. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6214-9_6
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