Psychology, Department of

 

Date of this Version

2012

Citation

VanderVeen et al . , Journal of Clinical Psychology 68 (2012)

Abstract

Objectives: The goal of the scientist-practitioner (S-P) training model is to produce clinical psycholo-gists equipped to integrate and utilize both science and practice in the clinical and research domains. However, much has been written regarding the possible shortcomings of S-P training and whether clinical psychology graduate students are actually gaining the knowledge and skills to integrate sci-ence and practice during graduate training and beyond (Chang, Lee, & Hargreaves, 2008; Gelso, 2006; Merlo, Collins, & Bernstein, 2008; Phillips, 1993). Methods: As such, the present study assessed ratings of satisfaction, perception of ability, and use of the S-P training model within 653 clinical psychology graduate students enrolled in programs that are members of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology. Results: Findings suggest that students are consistently trained in the integration of science and practice and have confidence in their abilities to apply the S-P integra-tion to research and clinical work. However, despite understanding the ways in which science can influence practice, over one third of students reported that they rarely use science-based decisions when informing clients of the clinical services they will be providing. Conclusions: The implications of these results support the need for a more detailed evaluation of clinical psychology graduate stu-dents as well as the use of research-informed practice and the process of providing clients with in-formation they need to make informed choices about treatment.

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