Highlighting Students and Trainees in the Field of Pediatric Psychology: Introduction to the Special Issue

Abstract

Introduction: This special issue of Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology (CPPP) highlights key mentored research of students and trainees in the field of pediatric psychology. In this issue, the valuable work of our students and trainees is discussed under the framework of the Society of Pediatric Psychology (SPP) Strategic Plans four foundational pillars: (a) Membership, (b) Education & Career Development, (c) Science & Practice, and (d) Advocacy.

Methods: For this special issue, we sought articles in which the student/trainee had an identified leadership role and served as first author on the submitted manuscript. Articles could cover quantitative or qualitative research, systematic or topical reviews, continuous improvement projects, case studies, and/or program development efforts. Papers detailing student/trainee involvement in diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) and advocacy efforts, as well as data-driven or commentary papers discussing issues in training and mentorship were also encouraged.

Results: This special issue includes 10 articles spanning topics such as (a) addressing and improving pediatric health and mental health conditions; (b) meeting the needs of underserved populations; (c) DEIA initiatives; and (d) training imperatives. The issue opens with an editorial and closes with an ethics article.

Conclusions: This special CPPP issue increased opportunities for burgeoning pediatric psychology scholars, and the articles included clearly align with the foundational pillars in SPP’s 2022–2026 Strategic Plan. Further, they paint a clear picture of areas of passion and focus for the pediatric psychology students and trainees, highlighting the work being done and to be done, in the field of pediatric psychology.