A survey study of psychological assessment practices in the screening and admission process of candidates to the priesthood in the U.S. Catholic church.

Abstract

The purpose of this survey study was to investigate the policies and procedures concerning the psychological assessment of candidates to the Catholic priesthood. Diocesan and religious vocation directors and seminary rectors identified 86 different mental health professionals they usually refer to for this type of psychological evaluation. This study used a qualitative methodology comprising focus group interviews and self-reported surveys (with open-ended questions). Most of the respondents (96%) were psychologists. Questions elicited responses on psychological assessment practices of candidates to the Catholic priesthood (e.g., areas of assessment, structure of psychological report, instruments used). The results have implications for the screening of candidates to the priesthood. Ethical and multicultural considerations are discussed, and suggestions are offered for the improvement of policies and procedures, as well as for future research.

The Psychological Assessment of Clerics

“…Nevertheless, and irrespective of the specific focus of the psychological evaluation undertaken, some key areas, including affective maturity, interpersonal skills, empathic abilities, and psychosexual development, are likely to be assessed (McGlone et al 2010). Additional issues typically explored are sexual experience, orientation, and inclination; capacity for maintaining celibacy (for Catholic priests and nuns); history of substance misuse; attitude to authority; level of insight; ability to communicate effectively; and capacity for leadership in representing the values and doctrines of the Church (McGlone et al 2010).…”

“…Additional issues typically explored are sexual experience, orientation, and inclination; capacity for maintaining celibacy (for Catholic priests and nuns); history of substance misuse; attitude to authority; level of insight; ability to communicate effectively; and capacity for leadership in representing the values and doctrines of the Church (McGlone et al 2010). …”

“…McGlone et al (2010) stressed the importance of an evaluation that considers strengths as well as pathological features in the referred individual and incorporates a battery of appropriate psychometric measures. Further, when sexually harmful behavior is an identified area of concern, we endorse the undertaking of a detailed psychosexual history.…”

“…Further, an understanding of the individual’s experiences of education, work, and relationships is systematically explored during the interview and contextualized in relation to the issues considered pertinent to the referral (Wilcox and Gray 2017). This approach is considered appropriate when assessing clerics (McGlone et al 2010; Plante and Boccaccini 1998). …”

“…In relation to addressing identified needs across this population, McGlone et al (2010) note that the Catholic Church in the United States frequently seeks assistance from mental health professionals to conduct assessments—often through the services of psychologists. This paper will discuss the utility of psychological evaluation in providing an underpinning structure for these various types of assessments to complement the ongoing evaluation of spiritual concerns, for which the church rightly holds full accountability.…”