The Hierarchical Clustering of Clinical Psychology Practicum Competencies: A Multisite Study of Supervisor Ratings |
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| Authors: | Craig J Gonsalvez Frank P Deane Russell Blackman Michael Matthias Roslyn Knight Yasmina Nasstasia Alice Shires Kathryn Nicholson Perry Christopher Allan Vida Bliokas |
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| Institution: | 1. Clinical and Health Psychology Research Initiative, School of Social Sciences and PsychologyWestern Sydney University;2. Illawarra Institute for Mental Health & School of PsychologyUniversity of Wollongong;3. School of PsychologyMacquarie University;4. School of PsychologyUniversity of Newcastle;5. Department of PsychologyUniversity of Technology Sydney;6. Department of PsychologyAustralian College of Applied Psychology;7. Department of PsychologyIllawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District |
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| Abstract: | Competency evaluation rating forms are widely used to assess a range of global and specific psychology practitioner competencies during and at the end of clinical placements. Surprisingly, there is little research examining the dimensional structure or the hierarchical clustering of items on these ratings. The current, multisite study examined supervisor ratings of clinical psychology trainees (N = 204) on the Clinical Psychology Practicum Competencies Rating Scale (CΨPRS). Based on the proximity criterion chosen, hierarchical clustering yielded either nine clusters or four super clusters: Good Practitioner Attributes and Conduct, Scientist Practitioner and Professional Management, Assessment and Intervention, and Psychological Testing. The study also tracked the developmental trajectory of competency attainment. CΨPRS ratings differentiated groups between early but not between later stages of training. Measurement issues and implications for training and practice are discussed. |
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| Keywords: | competency assessment field placement halo bias leniency bias psychology internships psychology practitioner competencies supervisor evaluations supervisor ratings |
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