APA Dictionary of Psychology

certification

Updated on 04/19/2018

the formal process by which an external agency affirms that a person has met predetermined standards and has the requisite knowledge and skills to be considered competent in a particular area. Certification applies to individuals and accreditation applies to institutions. See also credentialing.
the legal proceedings in which appropriate mental health care professionals formally confirm that a person has a mental disorder, which may result in commitment of that person. —certificated adj.

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