The role of school psychologists: past and future trends

Abstract

This study examines the historical and current role of school psychologists. A literature review and a critical analysis of the literature was performed to assess the evolution of school psychology and certain factors that influence the role. The history of the role, regional differences in the role, and the perceptions of the role are discussed. In addition, the literature review considers A Blueprint for Training and Practice II (Blueprint II) (Ysseldyke, Dawson, Lehr, Reschly, Reynolds, & Telzrow, 1997) as it is related to the role, the profession’s perceptions about the future of school psychology, and the barriers to role expansion. A critical analysis compares the findings of the literature review, and determines what further research would contribute to our knowledge about the future role of school psychologists.