MPU preparation
“ MPU preparation ” is an outdated term with a diffuse horizon of meaning. Requirement profiles and quality criteria for this field of activity are missing. The primary goal of the MPU preparation is to successfully pass the medical-psychological examination . Often the MPU preparation is wrongly equated with traffic psychological counseling or traffic psychological therapy . Various internet forums of varying quality can be found for MPU preparation. Trained traffic psychologists who provide traffic psychological advice in the run-up to the medical-psychological examination clearly distinguish themselves from this.
In the German driving license system, the medical-psychological examination as a decision-making aid for the driving license authorities in driving license matters is regulated by law, but not the advice in advance of the MPU. In addition to independent consultants and local self-help groups, there are also certified or accredited organizations operating nationwide that operate quality assurance. It is legally regulated that the assessment bodies for fitness to drive themselves do not offer any advice and are also not allowed to give individual recommendations. Often free information events are offered so that those affected can get a personal picture and reduce fears of the threshold in the run-up to the MPU.
The so-called MPU preparation is subject to unregulated, sometimes aggressive competition. This complicates concrete recommendations in terms of consumer protection . The lack of a technically sound change concept with integrated intervention steps (e.g. according to the TOTE model ) is often criticized . Driving license offices often display information material from MPU preparation providers, but usually do not give any specific recommendations. It is therefore up to those affected whether they find competent advice that leads to long-term success. Unqualified MPU advice can significantly extend the period without a license.
Qualified providers are usually well placed on the Internet and offer a transparent service and suitable information material (e.g. search for "mpu <city name>"). They avoid the derogatory term "idiot test" and do not rely on advertisements.
BDP selection criteria
The Professional Association of German Psychologists (BDP) offers assistance in identifying problematic providers. Because of the widespread dubious business practices, the area of work has a questionable reputation in some cases. Providers with a “money-back guarantee”, unsubstantiated promises of success or package offers are advised against. Serious preparers offer free information evenings or information talks, but these generally relate to the MPU. Individual advice on the personal requirements for maintaining or re-issuing the driver's license, however, takes place with reputable advisors in an initial consultation that is subject to a fee. This initial consultation includes the diagnostic classification according to the assessment criteria and gives realistic indications of the chances of success as well as shows ways of dealing with the deficits that still exist.
Advice in the run-up to an MPU should not be geared solely towards passing the MPU (acting classes). We recommend professionally well-trained consultants, usually qualified psychologists with relevant qualifications, who undergo quality assurance. In view of the complexity of the questions and the increasingly demanding assessment criteria for the MPU, advice from diagnostically trained advisors (e.g. former experts) is recommended.
It is often difficult for laypeople to judge whether substance abuse is subject to abstinence. In this case, stabilization periods must be observed, which are complex to document (so-called screenings ) and whose duration is regulated in a differentiated manner . In many other cases, such medical measures are not required. They can even be contraindicated if careful psychological reflection and therapeutic work-up are much more important.
criticism
Institutions that offer medical-psychological examinations ( assessment bodies for fitness to drive ) see a need for legal regulation. Unusual growth and dubious business practices should be contained in the interests of those affected and road safety. A solid and qualified MPU preparation also includes proof that the measures offered were effective (so-called real test after the new driver's license has been issued).
In view of the far-reaching consequences of the withdrawal of the driver's license for those affected and for public safety, the question of quality assurance of the MPU preparation arises. The requirement for certification and strict effectiveness controls is increasingly discussed.
Individual evidence
- ↑ MPU and consumer protection . Traffic Psychology Section at the Professional Association of German Psychologists. Retrieved February 8, 2016.
