BUILDING FOUNDATIONAL KNOWLEDGE COMPETENCIES IN PROFESSIONAL GEROPSYCHOLOGY

摘要

Only 3–5% of psychologists have specialized training in geropsychology yet a recent survey found that 39% of doctoral psychologists -- most of whom had little or no training in aging -- frequently provided services to at least a few older people. The Pikes Peak Model for Training in Professional Geropsychology outlines attitude, knowledge, and skills competencies for practice with older adults. Little guidance has existed for those psychologists who provide or want to provide services to older adult and who want to build foundational knowledge in geropsychology. This paper presents findings from a study of 149 geropsychologists who were asked to identify those Pikes Peak Model competencies critical for foundational knowledge at the “exposure” level consisting of the equivalent of 15 hours of continuing education. Study findings formed the basis of recommendations from the Council of Professional Geropsychology Training Programs that were endorsed other sister geropsychology professional groups.