Geropsychology training at the doctoral level: A program evaluation case example

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Gerontology
• Education

Background:

• The population of older adults is rapidly expanding.
• There is a significant shortage of psychologists specializing in geropsychology.
• Clinical psychology training programs need to ensure adequate geropsychology preparation for students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adequacy of geropsychology training within a clinical psychology doctoral program.
• To assess doctoral students' fieldwork experiences, coursework, and interest in working with older adults.
• To provide a model for program evaluation to improve aging-related training.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a program evaluation in one APA-accredited clinical psychology doctoral program.
• Administered an online survey to 99 doctoral students.
• Explored students' field training, coursework, and interest in geropsychology.

Main Results:

• Students reported significantly less coursework and fieldwork focused on older adults compared to other age groups.
• A high level of interest in learning about aging was reported, with 73.74% of participants expressing some current interest.
• The evaluation yielded practical data leading to institutional actions for improvement.

Conclusions:

• Clinical psychology programs may not be adequately preparing students for the growing needs of the older adult population.
• Despite training gaps, students show significant interest in geropsychology.
• Brief program evaluations can effectively identify areas for improvement in aging-related training.