Conceptual, methodological, and statistical issues in developmental psychopathology: A Special Issue in honor of Paul E. Meehl

Abstract

With the passing of Paul E. Meehl, Regents Professor of Psychology at the University of Minnesota, on February 14, 2003, the world lost one of the most influential clinical psychologists of the 20th century. The breadth of his interests, the preciseness and clarity of his thinking, the elegance of his writing, and his ability to integrate scientific and clinical matters of import were hallmarks of his illustrious career (see, e.g., Meehl, 1954, 1973, 1991). Yet, it is the very magnitude of his professional pursuits that defy categorization or even placement within a single field of inquiry. Whether they pertain to philosophical matters, measurement and psychodiagnostic issues, or elucidating psychopathological processes, Paul Meehl's contributions were seminal and established a base on which scholars could build their own theoretical and research perspectives. Although Paul certainly did not consider himself to be a developmental psychopathologist, his influence can be seen in the theoretical and methodological streams that have nurtured the emergence and growth of the field. Thus, it seems a fitting tribute to Paul that this Special Issue, “Conceptual, Methodological, and Statistical Issues in Developmental Psychopathology,” be dedicated in his honor.