The commission opted to retain another diversity-related standard: Programs must teach trainees to respect cultural and individual differences in order to treat their patients effectively. In reviewing each standard, the commission weighed “what may put programs in a compromised position” against “what is essential to the practice of psychology that simply cannot be changed,” he said.
A spokesman for the Department of Justice said the A.P.A. had taken a good step, but would have to take further steps to eliminate diversity mandates, which he said “encourage or require illegal discrimination.”
“Suspension is a welcome development, but it is not nearly enough,” said the spokesman. “These kinds of rules are unlawful and have no place in a society that values individuals for their character.”
Kevin Cokley, a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, said he was “absolutely devastated” to learn of the A.P.A.’s decision on a psychology listserv this week.
“Frankly, I think the decision is really unconscionable, given what we know of the importance of having diverse mental health providers,” Dr. Cokley said. “I don’t know how the A.P.A. can make this sort of decision and think that we are still maintaining the highest standards of training.”
He said he thought the A.P.A. had acted prematurely, and could have waited until it faced a direct challenge from the administration.
Read the full article on The New York Times.
