Percepções de estudantes de terapia ocupacional da Universidade Federal da Bahia sobre a ocupação cozinhar

Abstract

Upon entering university, students often experience changes in their daily occupations. Some studies have already demonstrated that the educational environment influences university students' eating habits. The practice of cooking is directly connected to eating habits; therefore, this study aims to explore the dimensions of cooking in university students’ experiences.Objective: To investigate the perceptions of Occupational Therapy students at Universidade Federal da Bahia regarding the occupation of cooking through the lens of Occupational Science.Methods: Based on data gathered through interviews with Occupational Therapy students at UFBA, we analyzed aspects related to the form, function, and meaning of the cooking occupation.Results: The investigation yielded insights that enhance understanding of the dimensions shaping cooking for this population.The findings indicate that the occupation of cooking is experienced diversely by students, potentially representing both a burden and a source of pleasure, self‑care, and resistance. Conclusion: Understanding these experiences can contribute to broader reflections on health, daily life, and occupational justice in the university context.