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American Psychological Association practice guidelines for psychopharmacology: Ethical practice considerations for psychologists involving psychotropic use with children and adolescents
Author(s) -
Goldberg Susan G.,
Wagner Kathryn
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.22705
Subject(s) - psychology , psychotropic medication , psychotropic drug , constructive criticism , constructive , association (psychology) , psychopharmacology , criticism , medline , psychiatry , clinical psychology , psychotherapist , mental health , drug , art , literature , process (computing) , computer science , operating system , law , political science
Objectives This study discusses the implications of the American Psychological Association’s 2011 Practice Guidelines for Pharmacology as they apply to psychologists working with juvenile clients. Special considerations apply due to concerns about the developmental side effects that occur when psychotropic medications are prescribed to children and adolescents. Methods or Design This study provides recommendations for implementing each of the Practice Guidelines. Constructive criticism of the Practice Guidelines is also discussed with the aim of improving service delivery. Results This study provides specific recommendations for psychologists regarding obtaining adequate knowledge about psychopharmacology to inform clients or consult with physicians. Suggestions are made for continuing education requirements for psychologists who work with juveniles. Conclusions Recommendations are made for psychologists working with juveniles to increase their knowledge of psychotropic medications for a more ethical and informed voice regarding the prescribing of such medications.