Adherence Knowledge and Education Needs Among Pediatric Psychology Trainees: A Needs Assessment and Recommendations

• Published in: Clinical practice in pediatric psychology 2020-03, Vol.8 (1), p.45-55
• Main Authors: Psihogios, Alexandra M., Gutiérrez-Colina, Ana M., Iskander, Jeannette M., Wasserman, Rachel M., Ramsey, Rachelle R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Desire; Evidence Based Practice; Female; Human; Intervention; Male; Needs Assessment; Pediatrics; Professional Competence; Psychology Education; Training
• ISSN: 2169-4826; 2169-4834
• DOI: 10.1037/cpp0000306

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess pediatric psychology trainees' perceived knowledge and understanding of clinical and ethical/professional issues in the area of treatment adherence. A secondary goal was to determine trainees' needs and preferences for additional adherence-related training. Method: Seventy-nine trainees consisting of graduate students (49.4%), doctoral interns (20.2%), and postdoctoral fellows (30.4%) completed the Adherence Training Needs Assessment, a 26-item survey created by Adherence Special Interest Group leaders and approved by the Executive Board of the Society of Pediatric Psychology. This survey assessed trainee's experiences, perceived competencies, training barriers, and desire and recommendations for additional training in the areas of adherence assessment, intervention, and ethical and professional issues. Results: Findings highlight adherence training gaps across several domains, notably evidence-based assessment, intervention, and theoretical knowledge. The vast majority of trainees endorsed a desire to enhance their adherence competencies through hands-on clinical training and increased access to adherence resources. Conclusions: To continue Society of Pediatric Psychology's commitment to training pediatric psychologists, this paper highlights current challenges and novel opportunities to provide optimal adherence training. Implications for Impact Statement This study suggests that pediatric psychology trainees have unmet educational needs related to adherence and desire additional training in adherence assessment and intervention. Facilitating trainees' education and training in adherence has important and widespread implications in ultimately addressing this prevalent clinical issue, advancing empirical knowledge, developing and implementing robust interventions, and collaborating with other providers to provide the best care to patients and families.