Die kliniese sielkundige: handhawer van ambivalensie

Inaugural lecture--Department of Psychology, Rand Afrikaans University, 26 October 1981@@It is imperative that the trainer of clinical psychologists be clear as to the identity of the clinical psychologist. Controversy and uncertainty exists concerning the definition of the identity of the clinical psychologist. On the one hand he is seen as a scientist, a tester of theories; in contrast as a practitioner who wants to help people in their ordinary lives. Taking a closer look at the essence of what the clinical psychologist does, it becomes clear that the scientist and the practitioner represent two incompatible systems of thought. The precision and control characterising the scientific endeavour seem to be irreconcilable with the intuitive and "open" communication of a typical clinical situation. Some influential clinical psychologists, in noting the ambivalence inherent in the identity of the clinical psychologist, have advocated a deliberate choice between the two identities. This has resulted in a polarization between two points of view: reason and emotion, thinking and feeling, science and practice are played off against one another at the cost of both. The point of view represented in this address is that polarization can only be harmful. It is stated that the ambivalent identity for the clinical psychologist should not only be accepted but also actively promoted, since it seems to be the best way to meet the reality of a clinical situation. It is furthermore pointed out that clinical psychology as a subject cannot develop if the clinical psychologist is unable to be scientist and practitioner simultaneously. Ways are suggested which could be followed by tutors towards training a clinical psychologist to maintain and tolerate his ambivalent role.