Training experiences and theoretical orientations of pediatric psychologists

J Pediatr Psychol. 2003 Mar;28(2):115-22. doi: 10.1093/jpepsy/28.2.115.

Abstract

Objective: To reexamine members of the Society of Pediatric Psychology (SPP) to document trends in training experiences of individuals who identify themselves as pediatric psychologists.

Methods: Using the 1999 SPP membership list, we asked respondents to complete a survey describing their degree status, theoretical orientation of graduate program, type of internship/fellowship, current employment setting, and orientation to assessment and treatment of pediatric problems.

Results: The majority of the respondents matriculated from doctoral programs in the last two decades. Compared to a previous survey (Mullins, Harbeck-Weber, Olson, & Hartman, 1996), this survey had a higher percentage of respondents who completed accredited predoctoral or postdoctoral training in pediatric psychology. Over half of the respondents were primarily employed in medical centers or academic institutions; fewer respondents reported working in private practice settings than in the previous survey 10 years ago. Respondents' current orientation was most often described as cognitive-behavioral. In this survey, the percentage of respondents endorsing an eclectic orientation was lower; the percentage endorsing cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, and systems orientations increased.

Conclusions: We discuss implications of these findings as they relate to training and practice in pediatric psychology.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Education, Graduate / organization & administration
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internship and Residency / organization & administration
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Psychological Theory*
  • Psychology, Child / education*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Teaching*