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STIMULUS QUESTIONS: CHAPTER TWO RESEARCH TRAINING – JOYS AND
CHALLENGES ASSUGNMENT
Stimulus Questions: Chapter Two Research Training – Joys and Challenges Assignment
Stimulus Questions
1. In what ways do you think scientific thinking might be useful for both practice and
science activities?
I think that scientific thinking makes us stronger counselors because it has an emphasis on
critical thinking. A huge part of what we do depends on critical thinking such as the ability to
identify and process information with fewer biases, stereotypes, and assumptions; formulate
hypotheses; gather data; and make informed decisions (Heppner et al., 2015). Similar to utilizing
critical thinking in a science activity, the same thought process can be applied in counseling
situations. Scientific thinking will allow us to tackle problems as counselors by enhancing our
methodological skills to critically analyze an issue and also allows us to conceptualize intricate
problems.
2. Identify five activities you can do to incorporate scientific thinking into your counseling
practice.
In essence, Pepinsky and Pepinsky (1954) suggested that the counselor incorporate a scientific or
critical thinking model by (a) generating hypotheses based on (b) the data that the client presents,
followed by (c) empirical testing of the hypotheses, to develop (d) a model that can be used (e) to
make predictions about the client. The goal of this approach lies in being data-driven or
empirical, reducing the likelihood of prejudice or personal biases.
3. What do you see as the most important advantages of integrating science and practice in
the counseling profession?
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STIMULUS QUESTIONS: CHAPTER TWO RESEARCH TRAINING – JOYS AND
CHALLENGES ASSUGNMENT
I feel like the most important advantage of integrating science and practice in the counseling
profession is that it encourages a balanced approach combining academic knowledge with real-
life application. This can lead to enhanced effectiveness as it increases the likelihood of
successful outcomes by allowing us to apply evidence-based methods. By regularly integrating
both we can promote an environment of continuous learning and positive development within the
counseling field.
4. How do you see yourself in terms of being a researcher and/or practitioner?
Personally, it seems like a scary thought with a lot to take on. I see myself to be anxious at first
but getting more comfortable as I strengthen my knowledge. Heppner et al. (2015) suggests that
feelings of anxiety and doubt associated with research are normal; they are often due to having
limited experiences. The book also goes on to suggest that as we obtain more experience with
research activities, our research interests may increase and we may see a higher value on the role
of research (Heppner et al., 2015).
5. What do you feel very passionate about in your future as a counselor? Can you see any
way that research could help you enhance the work you will do within the areas that excite
you the most?
I feel very passionate about helping people with depression. I think that researching different
evidence-based approaches associated with Depression will enhance the work I do and allow me
to give the best treatment opportunities to my clients. Using assessment tools can also assist with
accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of symptoms.
6. What concerns, obstacles, and fears do you have about scientific training?
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STIMULUS QUESTIONS: CHAPTER TWO RESEARCH TRAINING – JOYS AND
CHALLENGES ASSUGNMENT
Some concerns I have regarding scientific training is the fear that it will be too complex for me. I
fear to fail when it comes to meeting the standards of scientific training. Sometimes I find that
research articles can sound very intimidating and complex which makes it hard for me to look
forward to. I also worry about how I will be able to incorporate this into my every day
professional practice.
7. Examine the reactions you listed in question 6; why do you think you have these
reactions
I think I have these reactions because at times I feel like I must work harder than others to be as
successful as I want. Growing up from an urban area in NYC, I sometimes feel insecure about
my vocabulary compared to others in my class or profession. This is a struggle for me as I strive
to grow professionally. It can be intimidating and also makes me feel anxious. This is something
I have to work on.
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STIMULUS QUESTIONS: CHAPTER TWO RESEARCH TRAINING – JOYS AND
CHALLENGES ASSUGNMENT
Reference
Heppner, P. P., Wampold, B. E., Owen, J., Thompson, & Wang, K. T. (2015). Research design
in counseling. Cengage Learning.
Pepinsky, H. B., & Pepinsky, P. N. (1954). Counseling the- ory and practice. New York: Ronald
Press. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/10631-
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