Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2018

School

Psychology

Abstract

Given that VA is the largest trainer of psychologists in the United States, this study sought to understand satisfaction with VA psychology training and which elements of training best predict trainees' positive perceptions of training (e.g., willingness to choose training experience again, stated intentions to work in VA). Psychology trainees completed the Learners' Perceptions Survey (LPS) from 2005 to 2017 (N = 5,342). Satisfaction was uniformly high. Trainee satisfaction was significantly associated with level of training, facility complexity, and some patient-mix factors. Learning environment (autonomy, time with patients, etc.), clinical faculty/preceptors (teaching ability, accessibility, etc.), and personal experiences (work/life balance, personal responsibility for patient care, etc.) were the biggest drivers of stated willingness to repeat training experiences in VA and seek employment there. Results have implications for psychologists involved in the provision of a training experience valued by trainees.

Comments

© American Psychological Association, 2018-08-01. This paper is not the copy of record and may not exactly replicate the authoritative document published in the APA journal. Please do not copy or cite without author's permission. The final article is available at: https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000187.

Publication Title

Professional Psychology: Research and Practice

Volume

49

Issue

4

First Page

290

Last Page

297

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