Training Health Psychologists in Mexico: From Undergraduate to Doctoral Education
摘要
This chapter explores the evolution and current state of health psychology training in Mexico, highlighting the journey from undergraduate to doctoral education. It discusses the historical context of health psychology, its recognition as a specialty by the American Psychological Association in 1978, and the establishment of the Mexican Psychological Society in 1951. The training framework is analyzed across three academic levels: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, emphasizing the competencies developed at each stage. The bachelor's program provides foundational knowledge, while master's programs offer specialization in health psychology, focusing on assessment, intervention, and research. Doctoral programs aim to generate knowledge and advance research methodologies in health psychology. The paper also addresses the challenges faced in the training of health psychologists, including curriculum standardization, accessibility to quality programs, and the need for integration with the healthcare system. The evaluation by the Interinstitutional Commission for the Training of Human Resources for Health (CIFRHS) in 2025 is highlighted as a pivotal moment for enhancing the quality and relevance of psychology education in Mexico. Ultimately, the paper underscores the importance of training health psychologists to meet the growing mental health challenges in the country.