Open AccessThe Hierarchical Clustering of Clinical Psychology Practicum Competencies: A Multisite Study of Supervisor Ratings
Author(s) -
Gonsalvez Craig J.,
Deane Frank P.,
Blackman Russell,
Matthias Michael,
Knight Roslyn,
Nasstasia Yasmina,
Shires Alice,
Nicholson Perry Kathryn,
Allan Christopher,
Bliokas Vida
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
clinical psychology: science and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.285
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1468-2850
pISSN - 0969-5893
DOI - 10.1111/cpsp.12123
Subject(s) - practicum , supervisor , psychology , applied psychology , medical education , pedagogy , medicine , management , economics
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 (CΨ PRS ). 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. CΨ PRS ratings differentiated groups between early but not between later stages of training. Measurement issues and implications for training and practice are discussed.