A psychological re-analysis of the scientist-practitioner model

Abstract

For decades, NHS clinical psychologists have struggled to implement the scientist–practitioner model of professional practice. The pressure for effectiveness and efficiency in health services internationally, and the advent of the NHS research and development (R & D) strategy in the UK make this a suitable moment to reframe this model, in favour of the more attainable, complementary and timely approaches of ‘empirical clinician’, ‘evaluative clinical scientist’ and ‘clinical scientist’. As well as being harmonious with the R & D programme, these more discrete models of professional practice can facilitate arrangements for basic training and continuing professional development. In this review paper, the R & D strategy is analysed from the standpoint of a ‘self-regulation’ model, as applied to clinical psychology. This psychologically reflexive approach focuses attention on the need for professions to observe their own research behaviour, to set appropriate improvement goals for themselves, and to alter their behaviour if they are to adapt successfully to the changed NHS. The literature concerned with modifying the behaviour of a range of professionals is used to highlight promising ways to self-manage effectively in the future. Copyright © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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