Community Psychology Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Community Psychology?

Community psychology is a field of study within the broader discipline of psychology that focuses on understanding individuals within their larger social contexts, as well as using this knowledge to create interventions that promote positive change. In other words, community psychologists strive to understand why certain communities experience mental health issues at higher rates than others and how those issues can be addressed in the most effective ways possible. Community psychologists often work with communities directly, utilizing research methods such as surveys and focus groups, to identify problem areas and develop solutions. Additionally, they may provide direct intervention services such as counseling or crisis support. Community psychology is unique in its emphasis on both individual and systemic level change. This approach prioritizes the view that social problems are not isolated phenomena, but rather interconnected components of a larger system which must be addressed holistically in order for meaningful change to occur. This perspective allows for an expansive range of interventions beyond traditional clinical approaches; for example, community psychologists may work with public policy makers or local organizations to enact large-scale changes that improve the environment or access to resources for a particular population. One key tenet of community psychology is empowerment; it seeks to mobilize individuals within their respective contexts so they can actively participate in creating solutions that better meet their needs and benefit everyone involved. Community psychologists often take a collaborative approach when seeking to establish partnerships between stakeholders who can contribute different skills or perspectives towards achieving shared goals. Furthermore, this field encourages professionals to adopt an anti-oppressive stance when engaging with diverse populations so power imbalances are not perpetuated through their work. In sum, community psychology is a highly interdisciplinary field which seeks to promote positive social change by understanding individuals within their environments and developing holistic interventions tailored towards specific contexts.