A survey study of psychological assessment practices in the screening and admission process of candidates to the priesthood in the U.S. Catholic church.

Abstract

The purpose of this survey study was to investigate the policies and procedures concerning the psychological assessment of candidates to the Catholic priesthood. Diocesan and religious vocation directors and seminary rectors identified 86 different mental health professionals they usually refer to for this type of psychological evaluation. This study used a qualitative methodology comprising focus group interviews and self-reported surveys (with open-ended questions). Most of the respondents (96%) were psychologists. Questions elicited responses on psychological assessment practices of candidates to the Catholic priesthood (e.g., areas of assessment, structure of psychological report, instruments used). The results have implications for the screening of candidates to the priesthood. Ethical and multicultural considerations are discussed, and suggestions are offered for the improvement of policies and procedures, as well as for future research.