M. Connaughton et al., A SURVEY OF COMPETENCES FOR PSYCHOLOGISTS IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITYSERVICES, Australian psychologist, 29(3), 1994, pp. 188-193
The introduction of registration for psychologists in NSW has formalis
ed the necessity for newly qualified psychologists to receive supervis
ion. In an effort to identify skill competencies for graduate psycholo
gists working in the area of developmental disability, 54 psychologist
s were sent a postal survey requesting them to identify the most impor
tant skill domains for psychologists to master in their first two year
s of work experience, as well as the most important skills within each
domain. The results for the 33 respondents indicated general overall
agreement between supervisors and supervisees, and between psychologis
ts in community settings and those in large residential facilities, al
though some important differences were noted. The implications of the
survey for the planning of supervision of psychologists in the area of
developmental disability are discussed.