Dunton, William R. [American psychiatrist, 1868–1966] , one of the founders of the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy and a pioneer in the profession throughout his career. He advanced the idea that occupation must aim toward a useful end for it to effectively treat mental and physical disability. He authored two influential textbooks and numerous journal articles in OT and promoted quilting for his patients for its healing potential. He is often referred to as the father of occupational therapy. The National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy became the American Occupational Therapy Association in 1921. See also American Occupational Therapy Association.
