What kind of psychology (and psychologists) does the society need?

Abstract

The article focuses on several factors whose negative influence can be observed in the process of educating future psychologists and in the psychological practice in Poland. The following are regarded by the author as the most detrimental:

1. The systematic lowering of academic standards; infusing psychology with pseudo-scientific concepts.
   2. The transition from elite to mass education at psychological studies.
   3. The absence of clear-cut criteria granting or refusing admission to the profession of psychologist; the increasing devaluation of the profession’s status.
   4. The lack of substantive (statutorily guaranteed) control over the institutions which offer psychological trainings and courses; preying on the naivety of students and young, inexperienced graduates.
   5. Too liberal policy of the state concerning the setting up of new major courses in psychology by newly established schools and offering by various academic institutions BA courses with the word “psychology” in the course title, which suggests that the graduates will possess qualifications in psychology entitling them to render psychological services.
   6. The lowering of the criteria assessing the effects of education (examinations, credits).
   7. The lack of balance in the assessment of academics – the assessment of research performance is more important than judging the standard of teaching.
   8. Recurrent attempts at implementing the Bologna system into the organisation of psychological studies (the two cycles system – Bachelor/Master).

It is the author’s aim to draw the attention of Polish psychologists to the potential threats which may impact the level of research performance, the standard of teaching, and psychological practice.