Personal growth and its role in the professional development of novice clinicians

• Main Author: Smith, Whitney M.
• Language: EN
• Published: Pepperdine University 2016
• Subjects: Clinical psychology
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10196173

<p> This study used an inductive, qualitative content analysis to investigate what aspects or elements of personal growth influence professional development in first-year clinical psychology doctoral students. Fifty-three journal entries reflecting critical moments during clinical training were coded using consensual agreement and interpretative phenomenological analysis. This study found six core themes representing aspects or elements of personal growth influencing professional development: Hindering beliefs and experiences, uncertainty, emotional presence, cognitive shifts, experiential learning, and intent. These findings are discussed in relation to current literature. Implications of the findings, future directions for research, and personal reflections are included.</p>