Guidelines for the Use of Psychology in Seminary Admissions

2. Psychosocial and Psychosexual Interview (an interview that

generally covers “birth to the present” of the applicant)

3. Intelligence Assessment (the applicant’s current cognitive

functioning)

4. Psychological Testing (structured written, visual, or verbal mea-

sures administered to assess the cognitive and emotional func-

tioning of the applicant)

5. Discussion Section (a written psychological assessment report

that includes an overall summary, important areas of the appli-

cant’s past that continue to inform his present emotional and

relational life, and identification of the applicant’s strengths and

areas for growth)

6. Recommendations (an assessment report that offers the appli-

cant and admission personnel concrete suggestions to help him

move toward his greatest potential)

7. Oral Feedback Session (a meeting of the psychologist with the

applicant and some admission person to discuss the results of the

psychological evaluation)

In presenting observations, it is helpful if the psychologist translates

psychological vocabulary into language understandable to both the

applicant and to the admissions personnel, as well as to the bishop or

major superior. In addition, as prescribed by numbers 51 and 52 of the

PPF, the reporting should demonstrate cultural sensitivity to Catholic

anthropology, the ethnic background of the applicant, and the demands

of eventual formation for the priesthood. In the end, the assessment will

be most helpful if it identifies the positive traits the applicant possesses

for a mature and healthy discernment of a calling to the priesthood.

Number 51 of the PPF encourages admission personnel to articulate

for psychologists those human traits and qualities that contradict an

authentic vocation to the priesthood. Without attempting an exhaustive

list, the following contraindications are provided as a guide to psycholo-

gists as they write their report on the applicant’s suitability:

1. Inability to be formed (blocks to growth and conversion);

rigidity or inflexibility that precludes openness to guidance

and influence