THE SCIENTIST-PRACTITIONER AND THE SCHOLAR-PRACTITIONER MODELS IN PSYCHOLOGY

Abstract

Literature and personal experience identify a gap between researchers and practitioners in the field of psychology. At least two models are trying to explain how training programs for future psychologists should integrate science and practice. The scientist-practitioner model often emphasizes research and aims to develop scientific, critical thinking, with results being published in international journals. It is mainly criticized by practitioners for offering statistical solutions and neglecting particular cases or contexts. The scholar practitioner model provides opportunities for students whose career purposes are focused on professional practice and focuses on the development of skills that can be used in the relations with clients. It is mainly criticized for neglecting recent knowledge obtained through advanced research and favoring personal experience and insight instead. However, many aspects of practice are scientifically defensible, and many scientific results can improve practice in psychology. Good science and good practice should go hand to hand, but an exact evaluation of the percentage of science vs. practice in our daily activities would be forced and artificial.