Date of Award
8-1-2023
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Kibby, Michelle
Second Advisor
Chwalisz, Kathleen
Third Advisor
Kellog, Jeffrey
Abstract
Researchers have described common problems with psychological reports over the past several decades. Some of these issues can contribute to difficulties for neuropsychologists (e.g., efficiency, insurance reimbursement). Additionally, these problems contribute to difficulties with feasibility, readability, and satisfaction for the readers of psychological reports. However, research has been limited on the perceptions of neuropsychological reports specifically, especially related to parent experiences with neuropsychological reports. Hence, this study sought to understand the current report-writing trends, parents' experiences and satisfaction, and neuropsychologists' openness to adjusting their report-writing styles. Data were obtained through surveying parents and neuropsychologists on their experiences reading and writing neuropsychological reports, respectively, and changes these neuropsychologists would find acceptable and parents would find helpful. Data were analyzed utilizing a mixed methods approach. Results indicated that many of the common problems with reports have persisted, but there were some more pressing difficulties. Specifically, parents and neuropsychologists wanted to improve report-writing efficiency and reducing reading levels would be beneficial changes. Furthermore, parents experience significant difficulties with implementing recommendations. Additionally, neuropsychologists feel that they lack guidance on how to appropriately adjust their report writing. Thus, future research should continue to examine these factors to enact beneficial changes more appropriately in report-writing practices of neuropsychologists.
Access
This dissertation is Open Access and may be downloaded by anyone.