Knowledge Base in Psychology
What is the focus of a psychodynamic approach?
Changing problematic behaviors, feelings, and thoughts by discovering unconscious meanings and motivations.
Where can we go for peer-reviewed literature?
APA PsycInfo Database
Define multiple relationships.
Relationships in which a practitioner is in a professional role with a person, in addition to another role with the same individual or with another person close to the individual.
How should scholarly papers and research be presented?
APA Style
Name a skill included under professional development for psychology graduates.
What does the Cognitive Triangle in CBT consist of?
Thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative methods?
Quantitative: numerical data and statistical analyses, such as test or survey scores, ratings, and frequencies
Qualitative: non-numerical data such as interviews, case studies, and observations
Define diversity.
Individual differences on a number of variables that place clients at risk for discrimination based on age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, or socioeconomic status.
How can therapists show active listening?
Using verbal and nonverbal encouragers, paraphrasing, checking in, and summarizing.
You are feeling overwhelmed balancing coursework, practicum, and personal responsibilities. What can be implemented to maintain professionalism and self-care?
Time management, setting priorities, establishing boundaries, using stress reduction techniques, and seeking mentorship.
Do therapists tend to prescribe to one particular theoretical orientation?
No, therapists usually blend elements from different approaches to provide genuine, personalized treatment. However, CBT is widely used because it is a short-term, goal-oriented, empirically supported treatment that is effective across diverse populations and is usually covered by insurance.
Define evidence-based practice (EBP)
Define intersectionality.
The complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect.
What are some ways mental health professionals can exercise caution using social media?
Private personal accounts, potentially a separate professional public account. Pseudonyms and protective profile pictures.
What are some ways we can expand our professional network and explore opportunities?
Attend conferences, join professional organizations, seek mentorship, engage in research, and participate in workshops and continuing education.
What does client-centered therapy look like?
A non-directive approach that rejects the idea of therapists as authorities. Clients are the experts on their own inner experiences.
What is the difference between reliability and validity?
Reliability: The ability of a measure to produce the same results consistently.
Validity: How well a study measures what it intends to measure.
A client needs ongoing care but cannot afford services. What are some ethical options?
Sliding scale fees, pro bono services, community resources, and referral if absolutely necessary.
How can therapists use language that respects a client's identity?
Tailor language to the audience's understanding, and avoid highly technical jargon.
During consultation, your supervisor critiques your skills with clients. How should you respond to this feedback?
Listen actively, ask clarifying questions, reflect on your behavior, implement changes, and monitor progress.
Explain the difference between a positive punishment and a negative reinforcement.
Positive Punishment: ADDS an unpleasant stimulus to DECREASE a behavior (scolding, issuing a fine, an extra lap, etc.)
Negative Reinforcement: REMOVES an unpleasant stimulus to INCREASE a behavior (buckling a seatbelt to stop the alarm, cleaning your room to stop parents' nagging, etc.)
What is one way psychologists can minimize bias in research?
Random assignment, blinding, peer review, or replication.
A therapist realizes their client's personal values conflict with their own. What is the best course of action?
Seek supervision to avoid imposing personal values and ensure non-discriminatory care, while also providing effective services and helping the client work towards their therapeutic goals.
How can a therapist navigate communication if a client becomes defensive in session?
Clarify intent, use nonjudgmental language, normalize feelings, and allow space for processing.
You notice you struggle maintaining objectivity when working with clients whose backgrounds differ greatly from your own. What steps should you take to improve your professional competence?
Seek supervision or consultation, pursue continuing education in cultural competence, and reflect on personal biases.