CHSU Discovery

Abstract:  
Introduction and Background: This study will examine psychological students’ attitudes toward prescription privileges for psychologists (RxP). RxP is given to a licensed psychologist with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology and in prescribing states. Psychologists have extensive training in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues; however, healthcare providers prescribe most psychotropic medications with little to no mental health training. Clinical psychologists can have a stronger role in meeting mental health care needs and serving the greater whole through prescriptive authority for psychologists (RxP). We hypothesize that psychological students’ attitudes will be more favorable towards RxP.  
Materials and Methods: The survey will ask participants for their demographics and include 36 items assessing their attitudes toward RxP. A sample population will be drawn through snowball recruitment utilizing the Internet, social media, email, and distribution in psychology college classes. The study is awaiting approval from the university’s Institutional Review Board (IRB). Data collection will begin once approval is obtained. 
Results and Conclusions: We anticipate that psychological students will have positive attitudes toward RxP. Additionally, results will help us understand psychological students' attitudes towards RxP.