A commentary on the past, present and future development of educational psychology services

Summary

Children's behaviour and attainments within mainstream schools are the subject of widespread interest. Education is now a major focus on all political agendas. The relevance of such matters to psychology and the profession is inescapable and avoidance ethically unacceptable. Nonetheless, many psychological services have found that other demands preclude a substantive contribution to mainstream education. A restatement of broader professional functions and objectives to central government appears needed, with minimal resources stated to secure them. They should prove cost‐effective and are politically and educationally feasible now. A historical review, emphasising forward‐looking strategies, is presented to facilitate such a development.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rodney Maliphant

Dr Rodney Maliphant, FBPsS, is Hon Research Fellow at University College London, and also at Exeter University. He was previously Director, MSc (Educational Psychology) Course and Senior Lecturer in Child Development at the Department of Psychology, University College. London.