Text

theses

The field of reproductive medicine has grown in size and complexity over the past three decades. Psychologists have played a significant role in this expansion, not only as infertility counselors, but also as consultants, researchers, and psychological examiners. Given the rapid increase in technology, as well as societal trends involving different ways of building families, the field is likely to continue to grow very quickly, and psychologists’ roles in the field may become increasingly important. Few research studies have been conducted on psychologists’ experiences in the field of reproductive medicine. In the context of the changing landscape of reproductive medicine and the growing integration of medicine and psychology, this qualitative study aimed to explore the distinct experiences and unique roles of the psychologist in reproductive medicine. Twelve semi-structured interviews were completed with licensed psychologists specializing in reproductive medicine. Research questions explored psychologists’ daily activities and their experiences of their roles, including professional challenges, rewards, and the experience of interdisciplinary work. Psychologists were asked to discuss their training, whether there were differences between their practice and training, and if so, how they reconciled those differences. The researcher also sought to understand psychologists’ conceptualization of the relationship between psychology and reproductive medicine, what psychologists feel others should know about their roles, and how their skills may be best utilized. The interview data collected were analyzed to uncover qualitative themes. Overall, participants believed that their comprehensive training in scientific research, theory, and practice made them especially suitable for work in reproductive medicine. Training in psychological testing was brought up as a distinct and important contribution. Psychologists saw their contributions as valuable not only to patient care, but to the efficiency and well-being of reproductive medicine practices. Obstacles included their experience of their roles as underutilized and undervalued and the challenges of working within a managed care health system. In sum, psychologists’ roles in reproductive medicine are distinct, valuable, and necessary for the evaluation and treatment of infertility patients and third-party candidates. Implications for reproductive medicine professionals and psychologists are discussed, both in terms of research and practice.

ETD_4754

Psy.D.

Includes bibliographical references

by Shara Jan Marrero

doi:10.7282/T3QF8QV1

ETD doctoral

The author owns the copyright to this work.