Expertise in the correctional setting: Comment on Neal (2018).

Abstract

Drawing out the distinctions and differences between forensic and correctional psychology, Neal (2018) provides a compelling overview of these separate but related subfields, yet the specialized postdoctoral training model described for forensic psychology is not necessary for the development of correctional psychologists. This comment elucidates 3 reasons why generalist training in an applied psychology setting provides a better model. The absence of an accumulated and advanced scientific base of specialized practice, the delivery of services to psychologically healthy and pathological populations, and the need for supervised practice in an applied setting are each described and point to a developmental model in which generalist skills in an applied setting are all suitable as an alternate to the specialization training model.

Generalist and specialist training in professional correctional psychology are compatible: Reply to Magaletta and Patry (2020).

“…Professional correctional psychology may fit the American Psychological Association’s (APA) proficiency definition, as a circumscribed activity in the general practice of professional psychology or one or more of its specialties that is represented by a distinct procedure, technique, or applied skill set used in psychological assessment, treatment, and/or intervention within which one develops competence [emphases added] (APA, 2012, p. 14; see also APA, 2019) Some currently proficiencies include sport psychology and addiction psychology. Proficiencies do not require specialized formal education after the doctoral degree—these competencies can be developed during graduate school, internship, and on-the-job training, consistent with Magaletta and Patry’s (2020) recommendations.…”

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In their constructive critique of Neal (2018), Magaletta and Patry (2020) argue that specialized training is not necessary for the development of professional correctional psychologists and suggest generalized training is a better model. These approaches are not mutually exclusive.

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“…In response to Neal (2018); Magaletta and Patry (2020) suggest that generalized training is a better model for the development of professional correctional psychologists than is specialized training. Although there are well-understood tensions between generalist and specialized models (Nelson, 1999; Roberts, 2006; Zlotlow, Nelson, & Peterson, 2011), they are not mutually exclusive.…”

“…As articulated by Neal (2018) and affirmed by Magaletta and Patry (2020), professional specialty status is not currently appropriate for correctional psychology. However, these writers agree about several distinct features relevant to the practice of correctional psychology.…”

“…Correctional psychologists must develop particular competencies and applied skill sets. These competencies include navigating unique ethical and legal issues (Neal, 2018) and functioning effectively in the nested and embedded systems that form the correctional context, such as developing skills in interdisciplinary communication and confrontation avoidance, and working in housing and segregation units, with work details and with other corrections staff (Magaletta & Patry, 2020; Magaletta, Patry, Dietz, & Ax, 2007).…”