The spirit and substance of community psychology

Reflections

Bibliographic Data

ID11043353
AuthorsRobert J Gregory (0000-0002-9284-6067, Massey University, corresponding author)
Year2001
Volume29
Issue4
Pages473-485
Publication date2001-07-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Community Psychology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0090-4392 • E-ISSN: 1520-6629
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/jcop.1030
OpenAlexW2083856920
LanguageEN
Citations received5
References cited54

Community psychology began with a spirit of participation, social change, and excitement in the mid‐1960s. However, the substance of community psychology, whether measured by impacts on prevention, empowerment, social inclusion, or otherwise, appears to be minimal in comparison with the needs evident today and the needs emerging. From the perspective of members of the discipline and field, a great deal of effort has already resulted in many meaningful changes. However, from the views of people at large, a new field such as community psychology has relatively little tangible effect on existing communities, societies, or civilizations. The spirit of community psychology might be present, but that may not result in the massive social changes needed in the 2000s. If community psychologists could focus their efforts, become catalysts, and act firmly and forcefully, then a revitalization and renaissance for “the people” and our collective future, could be initiated. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc

Community psychology · Criminology · Empowerment · Environmental ethics · Field (mathematics) · Perspective (graphical) · Political science · Public relations · Social change · Social science · Sociology · The Renaissance · Child and Adolescent Psychosocial and Emotional Development · Community Health and Development · Health Policy Implementation Science · Law · Psychology · Social Psychology

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