Exploring considerations of equality, diversity and inclusion in selection for a doctorate in clinical psychology programme: A qualitative study

Abstract

Diverse and inclusive healthcare workforces are important to optimise patient access and outcomes. Various attempts have been made to promote equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in clinical psychology; however, clinical psychology doctoral training programmes (DClinPsy) frequently fail to reflect the population demographics of the communities that they serve within the make-up of their trainees. Some research indicates that the lack of diversity might be linked to potential biases within the selection process.
This study seeks to qualitatively explore how application screeners and interview panellists for a DClinPsy programme consider EDI in the selection process. Content analysis of seven semi-structured interviews suggests that participants think broadly about EDI, considering differences between marginalised groups and the provision of equal access for members of these groups. Content analysis of discussions of protected characteristics suggests that, when considering EDI, race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status prove more salient than other factors such as age, and religion or belief.
Barriers and facilitators to accessing the DClinPsy are discussed. Participants discuss the perceived inadequacy of EDI training for their roles in selection, and conflicts related to different EDI measures such as positive action and standardisation. The findings are discussed with reference to existing literature. Future research should seek to examine the EDI training needs of those involved in the selection process and examine the efficacy of EDI initiatives to improve equity and inclusion for underrepresented groups.