https://doi.org/10.4087/MUQU8642">
 

Papers from the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology Conferences

Publication Date

2020

Abstract

Latin American psychology, although greatly under-represented in international journals, can provide important lessons for international psychologists. Mexican psychologist Rogelio Díaz-Guerrero was one of the first to describe would now be labeled an indigenous psychology. Latin American theorists such as Paolo Freire and Ignacio Martín-Baró have provided frameworks for understanding diversity and multiculturalism among groups with unequal power. Only by critical thinking and critical analysis can we understand and challenge disparate conditions. Relatedly, Latin American psychology often focuses on achieving social justice and solving practical real-world problems. Thus, community and political psychology are strengths of Latin American psychology and have made contributions to the understanding of multiculturalism and activism. Finally, the high proportion of youth in Latin American countries makes their well-being a priority and innovative research has worked to identify and promote talent among young people. Examples of Latin American contributions, personal lessons learned, and suggestions for incorporating knowledge and perspectives from Latin America are highlighted.

Acknowledgments

Judith L. Gibbons, Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University. The author would like to acknowledge the critical reading and insightful comments of Katelyn E. Poelker of Hope College. This paper is based on an invited address given by Judith Gibbons at the 24th Congress of the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology, Guelph, CA, 2018. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Judith Gibbons, Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University, 3700 Lindell Blvd. Saint Louis, MO USA 63108, judith.gibbons@slu.edu

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Wiser World With Multiculturalism

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