Continuous Professional Development

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the need for continuing professional development (CPD) among psychologists. The paper discusses the differing CPD requirements for psychologists in various countries and compares and contrasts these differences. The paper then discusses the arguments for and against CPD, including financial issues and adherence to theories learned.

From the Paper:

"Regularly undertaking CPD activity of an appropriate type and quality should keep them safe to practice and fit for purpose throughout their careers. No matter where someone is on the hierarchy, whether they have just qualified or have been qualified for 30 years, CPD is just as important, every professional needs to ensure that they are fit for purpose, safe to practice and up to date throughout their careers, QAA, (2003)"
"The majority of Psychologists know that their continuing professional development is important. But for some, when they hear the phrase 'continuing professional development' this is met by a yawn and an attempt to tot up the number of hours spent on activities which could count as CPD along with worries about where they will find the time to pursue CPD activities, APS (2006)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• American Psychological Association (2002) Results of State Provincial Mandatory Continuing Education in Psychology (MCEP) Requirements Survey. Retrieved April 03, 2006, from http://www.apa.org/ed/mcesurvey.html
• Australian Psychological Society (2006) Professional development frequently asked questions Retrieved April 04, 2006, from http://www.psychology.org.au/pd/faq/default.asp
• Bourg, E. (1998). Continuing Education: Updating of Knowledge and skills. In A. Bellack, and M. Hersen, (eds), Comprehensive Clinical Psychology, vol.2, Professional Issues. Elsevier, New York.
• British Psychological Society (2000). Guidelines for Continuing Professional Development for Clinical Psychologists. The British Psychological Society, Leicester.
• British Psychological Society (2001). CPD Logbook. The British Psychological Society, Leicester.

More papers on Continuous Professional Development:

• Analytical Essay # 127808 : "Professional Development Plan Evaluation"
• Persuasive Essay # 114360 : "Professional Development for Educators"
• Descriptive Essay # 132106 : "Professional Development and Child Care"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: