Using intersectionality theory to understand barriers faced by those applying to Clinical Psychology Doctorial training courses. A Q methodology approach

Intersectionality theory can be used to recognise individual’s social groups (such as, ethnicity, gender expression, sexuality, class, etc.) and understand how interconnections between social groups may create further privilege or oppression for the individual. The overall aim of this thesis is to contribute towards understanding intersectionality theory and its potential contributions to clinical psychology.

The first paper is a systematic literature review that asks what is known about the incorporation of intersectionality as a theoretical framework into psychological therapy. The review suggests incorporating intersectionality theory into psychotherapy, albeit within the small numbers and limited settings available to review, can improve the intervention. One issue the review highlighted, however, was that intersectionality theory is not always being incorporated into the psychotherapeutic process comprehensively. It is hypothesised this is due to a lack of understanding of the model, suggesting education around the model may be indicated for those delivering psychotherapy.

The second paper describes a Q methodology study using intersectionality theory to understand barriers faced by those applying to clinical psychology doctorial training courses. Two groups were considered, those pre-qualified (aspiring and trainee Clinical Psychologists) who identified as belonging to more than one disadvantaged social group and those post-qualified (Clinical Psychologists) who were part of the recruitment process. 30 participants completed the 47 statement q-sort and a short post-sort survey. Factor analysis reduced the data to five main viewpoints about barriers and facilitators when applying for clinical psychology training. The results of the study provide evidence that those who belong to several social groups considered disadvantaged face barriers when applying to clinical psychology training. There is also evidence to suggest barriers are similar across disadvantaged social groups. Recommendations are made to courses with a clear role for Clinical Psychologists in supporting the reduction of barriers faced by under-represented groups.

The third paper is an executive summary of the research undertaken in this thesis, written for participants of the empirical study. The paper was written in consultation with three aspiring Clinical Psychologists.