Inviting ASPPB to address systemic bias and racism: Reply to Turner et al. (2021)

Am Psychol. 2021 Jan;76(1):167-168. doi: 10.1037/amp0000801.

Abstract

Turner et al. (2021) subtly relapse in conceptualizing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (Part 2-Skills) exam as a competency evaluation despite Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards' (ASPPB) prior concession that Part 2 measures only the knowledge of skills (not skill competency). They do not address the purpose of redundant evaluation or the other concerns raised in Callahan et al. (2020). Instead, Turner et al. remain narrowly focused on defense of content validity and a reliance on outdated standards that fail to meet contemporary expectations for assessment of health care professionals. The adopted processes and procedures, albeit time consuming and effortful, are known to be methodologically inadequate. ASPPB's methods demonstrably foster linguistic biases and systemic racism that constricts licensure of diverse individuals as psychologists. Specific suggestions are offered, and ASPPB is urged to take drastic corrective action. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Humans
  • Professional Practice
  • Racism*