Regional Differences in School Psychology Practice

TLDR

The study surveyed school psychologists to assess regional differences in practice. A survey of 1,056 psychologists across all nine U.S. Census regions examined variability in demographics, roles, job satisfaction, assessment practices, and attitudes toward system reform.

Abstract

Practicing school psychologists were surveyed to determine if differences exist among practitioners in the various U.S. Census regions. The survey was completed by 1,056 practicing school psychologists representing all nine regions of the United States. Variability among the regions was noted for variables of (a) demographic characteristics, (b) current and preferred roles, (c) job satisfaction, (d) assessment practices, and (e) system reform beliefs and attitudes. The findings are discussed in the context of recent legislative changes and are compared to findings from previous national surveys of practicing school psychologists. Implications for future research and practice are also provided.