Factors associated with passing the EPPP on first attempt: Findings from a mixed methods survey of recent test takers.

Abstract

Licensure as a psychologist in the United States and Canada depends in part on passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). The current study examines the quantitative relationship between demographic and training characteristics on EPPP first-time pass rate and provides qualitative data that speaks to viable approaches to better prepare future test-takers. A survey was administered in 2018 to a sample of 1,691 early career members (i.e., earned their doctorate in the last 10 years) of the American Psychological Association assessing EPPP examination attempts, licensure, program characteristics, postdoctoral training, and demographic variables. First-time EPPP pass rate was significantly associated with race (higher for Whites than psychologists of color); degree type (higher for PhD graduates than PsyD graduates); and accreditation status (higher for individuals attending accredited doctoral and/or internship programs). Researchers also thematically analyzed responses from 194 individuals who did not pass the EPPP initially, about what they believed might have helped them do so. Participants wrote about tools and methods used to learn material and practice for the exam; structural factors related to test accessibility and perceived validity; and individual and situational factors that impacted their ability to focus or study. Future directions for the preservation of diversity in the psychology workforce implicate numerous stakeholders. Public Significance StatementA mixed-methods approach was used to replicate previous research identifying differential first-time EPPP pass rates based on demographics and program characteristics and introduced new qualitative data. Findings suggest that structural steps be taken to increase preparation for the examination, offer remediation for those who did not pass, and renew evaluation of the test to reduce any chance of it reducing diversity of psychology as a field.

Survey of doctoral internships in psychology offering experience in forensics and corrections.

“…Clinical psychology law is a burgeoning field, with more and more students seeking related training (DeMatteo et al, 2019). Generally speaking, internship placement is associated with career mobility and success (e.g., Macura & Ameen, 2021), and forensic/ correctional psychology is no exception (Malesky & Proctor, 2012). Yet, while the field has grown, applicants lack updated guidance on "what it takes" to acquire internships with forensic and/or correctional experiences.…”

Building a more equitable society: Psychology’s role in achieving health equity.

“…Population-based interventions that address multiple dimensions of wellness are needed for those without mental health diagnoses (Payne, 2017; Young, 2004); interventions are needed to address implicit racism inherent in health care systems, agencies, and organizations (Blume, 2016); practitioners often lack competence and confidence in addressing race and racism in clinical encounters (Buchanan & Wiklund, 2020; Estaban & Battle, 2003); there is a need for greater accessibility of clinical services to populations that fall through the cracks where financial structures disincentivize care for individuals from lower and middle SES communities and people of color, and the need exists for equitable and sustainable health care reimbursement (Palozzi et al, 2020); psychological assessment does not adequately capture culturally responsive constructs central to health equity work (Braveman, 2006); and the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology may have an impact that is counter to the goal of achieving a diverse practice workforce (Macura & Ameen, 2021);…”

The Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology: An examination of construct validity.

“…In a replication study, Sharpless (2021) subsequently drew data from a different state and found that White and Asian applicants passed more frequently on their first attempt than did either Black or Hispanic applicants (Sharpless, 2021). Another report the same year by a different investigative team tapped a diverse national sample and again found that White candidates were more likely to pass on their first attempt (Macura & Ameen, 2021).…”