Life Experiences in an Evolving Pediatric Psychologist
Life Experiences in an Evolving Pediatric Psychologist
Though I hardly think of myself as a "pioneer," I suppose I need to admit to being an older and hopefully wiser member of the Pediatric Psychology family. As proof of the "older" part, I will recount a few observations related to the impact of technology on our practice, scholarship, and communications. Transitions from traditional medical models to interdisciplinary health care systems that integrate psychosocial care and family empowerment are highlighted to underscore how we all may have grown a little wiser. My most significant observations are also my most personal. The invitation to submit this piece has provided a precious opportunity to review the role that mentors and collaborative relationships have played in the development of pediatric psychology and in my life. I will also share personal observations from challenging chapters in our family's life that defined my perspectives and priorities about health care, psychosocial interventions, trauma, and resilience. The net impact of my professional and personal experiences has been to be open to change—in perceptions, in practices, and in professional roles—and to feel some urgency about making our individual and collective efforts count.
Abstract and Introduction
Introduction
Though I hardly think of myself as a "pioneer," I suppose I need to admit to being an older and hopefully wiser member of the Pediatric Psychology family. As proof of the "older" part, I will recount a few observations related to the impact of technology on our practice, scholarship, and communications. Transitions from traditional medical models to interdisciplinary health care systems that integrate psychosocial care and family empowerment are highlighted to underscore how we all may have grown a little wiser. My most significant observations are also my most personal. The invitation to submit this piece has provided a precious opportunity to review the role that mentors and collaborative relationships have played in the development of pediatric psychology and in my life. I will also share personal observations from challenging chapters in our family's life that defined my perspectives and priorities about health care, psychosocial interventions, trauma, and resilience. The net impact of my professional and personal experiences has been to be open to change—in perceptions, in practices, and in professional roles—and to feel some urgency about making our individual and collective efforts count.
