| The objective of this study was to determine whether there were significant differences in attitude between people in regards to the image of psychology as a valid science. Psychology appears to have an image problem (Guest, 1948; Kazdin, 2003; Mental Health Commission, 2003; Simon, 2006; Stones, 1996; Thumin & Zebelman, 1967; Webb, 1989; Windish, 2006). Psychology is a relatively new science riddled with controversy and mistrust (Sydow & Reimer, 1998; Windish, 2006). A simple survey, containing a demographics section, items rated on a Likert scale, and a comments field, was created and a pilot study was conducted on students, staff, and faculty at the Adler School of Professional Psychology, as well as on random individuals in the community. Fifty four surveys were collected: 39 from the Adler School and 15 from the general community. Initial pilot data analysis was performed only on response tendency to survey item 1 "Psychology is a valid science," the results of which indicated that more participants in the "Other" group (92%) gave a favorable response to this item than did those participants in the "Adler" group (78%) or the "Medicine" group (25%). These findings suggested the need to conduct a larger study with more detailed analyses. Therefore, the current follow-up study was conducted on providers and consumers of mental health services through the Will County Health Department. One hundred thirty three surveys were collected: 67 from providers, and 66 from consumers. The survey showed good internal consistency and reliability in a forensic setting (e.g. Will County Health Dept) and in a non-forensic setting (e.g. Adler School of Professional Psychology and general community), suggesting the findings could be generalized across different settings and with different populations. Individuals between the ages of 31 and 43 responded more positively than did those in other age groups. Males responded more positively than did females. Consumers and community participants responded more positively than did providers. No significant differences were found among the providers, a finding which seems contrary to the literature. |
