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Abstract

Stress levels among trainee clinical psychologists have been investigated in a number of previous studies and found to be high. The present investigation, using a qualitative analysis, consists of two related studies and was carried out with the aim of investigating the context within which stress occurs rather than just quantifying its presence. Studies 1 and 2 comprise an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of interviews with trainees from two different UK-based training Programmes.

The results of the present studies allow for a more fine-grained interpretation of the contextual nature of stress in the lives of trainees. Despite high workloads, constant evaluation and feelings of inadequacy, the majority of trainees show significant levels of resilience and are able to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This resilience entailed using aspects of adaptive coping, adaptive health practices, emotional competence, and social support.

The role of clinical supervisors emerged as highly salient in this investigation and ongoing supervisor training is crucial in helping supervisors increase their role as a source of support and protection for trainees, while, at the same time, placing appropriate demands on them as part of their clinical training.