Psychologists and the Process of Change: Making a Difference in Diverse Settings

Abstract

The overall aim of critical psychology is to understand the relationship between psychology and power to improve the well-being of those who are marginalised by dominant practices. However, the seeds of critical psychology are difficult to grow in arid settings. Multiple players and institutional regulations have the power to either facilitate or inhibit critical work. In this chapter, we concern ourselves with the process of making a difference in diverse settings. In the previous chapter we concentrated on the agent of change and his or her responsibilities. Here we focus on praxis, or the process of change. We propose a cycle of praxis through which partners can critique existing practices and offer empowering alternatives.