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3 Examples of Change
Three of the ever-evolving ways technology has changed the field of psychology are:
Educational Changes
Pros: Utilizing the multi-faceted abilities of the internet, the student of psychology has more technology at their disposal than ever before. From researching paper topics to taking notes in class; the computer can successfully perform a plethora of tasks which formerly required the student to spend unlimited hours at the university library, manually taking notes. Laptops and search engines have made highly specialized psychology information available for students whenever and wherever they are able to connect to the internet. In fact, certain classes or the entire university can be found online. This has changed what the face of adegree in psychologylooks like; at the very least for those who previously could not get a psychology degree due to scheduling or geographic hurdles.
According to the APA:
Cons: However, they continue;
“The APA Commission on Accreditation currently does not accredit online-only doctoral programs. Some accredited programs may offer online courses or other content via distance education in an adjunctive role. These courses cannot represent a substantial nature of program content and certain classes (e.g., practicum) are not considered appropriate for this instructional method. Any online courses in accredited programs should be noted as such in public materials. At the doctoral level, the APA Commission on Accreditation reviews programs in clinical, counseling andschool psychology, as well as programs that offer education in a combination of these three areas. CoA does not review or accredit bachelor’s or master’s programs, nor does it review doctoral programs in on-practice subfields.”
It needs to be pointed out, the APA does not accredit any BA/BS or MA/MS programs whatsoever; on campus or online—they never have:nothing is new here.
Diagnostic Equipment Specialization
“The user can use the stress sensor anywhere in his home provided he is at a distance of less than 10 meters. By using a wireless communication system, the user is provided with a certain degree of freedom when using the device. The final user could manage the different devices from his television and the control center could take different action so as to change a person’s stress levels. Therefore, the coordination center could use different systems to help the person relax, such as turning down the lights or changing the kind of music the user is listening to.”
Technology-Based Therapy
A controversial trend in the practice of psychology is the use of internet therapy which allows both therapist and client to see and hear each other speak in real time.
An Expert’s Opinion
Cara Maksimow, LCSW, CPC, received her BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and she earned an MSW at Columbia University. Her career began in 1992 when she worked with numerous mental health diseases and conditions at an inpatient psychiatric hospital, as both a Clinician and a Clinical Supervisor. We asked Cara to candidly share her perceptions about online therapy.
On the flip side of the argument it can be challenging to read body language via webcam and obviously impossible via phone. That being said a therapist needs to have a clear sense of risk for suicide or violence or self harm and other factors that may make online of phone treatment not an option. Another downside is technology and HIPAA. Doing research into options to best protect confidentiality is also important.
From a strictly financial perspective it can save cost for both therapist and client in the sense that the therapist could treat from home and not pay for space/location. Saving drive time and gas and parking fees as well for both parties can be beneficial."
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