Perceptions of psychotherapy trainees of psychotherapy research

Widdowson, MDJ

Abstract

The research-practice gap and lack of engagement with research by trainees and qualified therapists is a widely discussed issue amongst psychotherapy researchers. The present study investigates the perceptions of psychotherapy trainees of psychotherapy research and explores what would encourage them to participate in research. Method: Two focus groups of 16 trainees in total were conducted at two separate psychotherapy training institutes to explore trainees’ attitudes and perceptions. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Results: Three superordinate themes emerged: negative perception of research; recognition of the importance of research; and what would be needed to facilitate engagement in research. Discussion: The results suggest that interest in and willingness to participate in research exists, however it is necessary for negative perceptions about research to be addressed and for researchers to design projects which are supportive of participants.

Citation

Widdowson, M. (2012). Perceptions of psychotherapy trainees of psychotherapy research. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research, 12(3), 178-186. https://doi.org/10.1080/14733145.2012.697473

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Sep 1, 2012
• Deposit Date: Jan 17, 2014
• Journal: Counselling and Psychotherapy Research
• Print ISSN: 1473-3145
• Publisher: Wiley
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 12
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 178-186
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14733145.2012.697473
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14733145.2012.697473
• Related Public URLs: http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/rcpr20#.UtlcOfunyPQ