Psychology as a science and a profession: An Australian perspective

Abstract

The practices and needs in psychological training (Nixon, 1994) in member countries of IUPsyS. are examined on a number of key issues that relate meaningfully to the development of psychology as a science and as a profession in Australia. One such issue is the ratio of applied to basic science, this issue being associated with the model of professional training adopted in Australia which is heavily scientist-practitioner. Developments in the recognition and growth of the profession in Australia are examined, and argument made that factors previously central to the growth of professionalism in Australia are now clearly changing in character.