What Strategies Do Psychologists Use to Stay Updated On Research?

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    What Strategies Do Psychologists Use to Stay Updated On Research?

    Remaining at the forefront of psychology's latest research and advancements is essential for professionals in the field. We've compiled insights from Licensed Psychologists, highlighting strategies ranging from subscribing to psychology journals to actively participating in key conferences. Explore the top four tactics they employ to ensure their knowledge and practice stay on the cutting edge.

    • Subscribe to Psychology Journals
    • Engage in Continuous Learning
    • Participate in Professional Development
    • Attend and Network at Psychology Conferences

    Subscribe to Psychology Journals

    It can be really helpful to subscribe to a monthly psychology journal or newsletter in an area of interest to help you stay current. As a psychologist who practices clinically full-time, it can be hard to find time to read new research, even though I want to stay updated. Having an email from a journal hyperlinked to new articles, or receiving a physical publication by mail, means I get research delivered to me on a consistent basis.

    Peggy Loo
    Peggy LooLicensed Psychologist, Manhattan Therapy Collective

    Engage in Continuous Learning

    I stay informed about the latest psychology research through continuous reading of reputable journals and publications. Engaging in discussions with peers and professionals in the field facilitates knowledge exchange and keeps me informed about diverse perspectives.

    Regularly perusing articles from sources like the American Psychological Association and other academic journals helps me stay abreast of cutting-edge studies. Collaborating with researchers on projects enhances my understanding of ongoing developments, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Attending conferences and webinars also plays a crucial role in my strategy, as it provides insights into emerging trends and allows for direct interaction with experts.

    Lastly, leveraging digital platforms, such as online forums and social media, helps me access a broader range of opinions and stay connected with the global psychology community.

    Kavya Bontha
    Kavya BonthaPsychologist

    Participate in Professional Development

    As a psychologist, staying current with the latest research and developments in the field is essential for providing effective and evidence-based care to clients. One strategy I employ is engaging in ongoing professional development activities. This includes attending conferences, workshops, and seminars where leading researchers and practitioners present their latest findings and discuss emerging trends in psychology.

    I also regularly review scholarly journals to stay informed about recent studies, theories, and advancements in various areas of psychology. Subscribing to online databases and email newsletters that aggregate new research findings and literature reviews can be a valuable tool for staying current.

    Additionally, participating in peer supervision groups, networking with colleagues, and supervising early-career psychologists allows for meaningful discussions about recent research and its implications for clinical practice. Collaborating with other professionals on research projects or attending interdisciplinary meetings can provide exposure to innovative ideas and perspectives from related fields.

    By actively engaging in these activities and remaining open to learning, I ensure that my practice is informed by the latest evidence and best practices in psychology.

    Rebbeca Lahann, Psy.D.
    Rebbeca Lahann, Psy.D.Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Spectrum Psychology and Wellness

    Attend and Network at Psychology Conferences

    Attending professional conferences is an essential strategy for me to stay up-to-date with the current research in the field of psychology. By actively participating in conferences, I have the unique opportunity to learn directly from experts, researchers, and other clinicians. Engaging in research presentations and panel discussions allows me to gain firsthand knowledge about the latest findings and advancements in my area of interest.

    Networking at conferences enables me to connect with other professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to collaborations and future research opportunities. I take detailed notes and collect handouts, allowing me to refer back to the information after the conference is over. Overall, attending conferences empowers me to stay current with the latest research, build connections, and actively contribute to the progress of the field of psychology.

    Nick Bach
    Nick BachOwner and Psychologist, Grace Psychological Services, LLC