LIMITATIONS OF WESTERN PSYCHOLOGY

Postmodernism in Psychology

    Challenges to the Status Quo in Psychology
    Alternative Emphases

Principles of Modernist Psychology

    Centrality of the Rational Mind
    Assumptions of Objectivity and Universality
    Language Communicates “Truth”

Principles of a Postmodern Alternative

    Centrality of Dialogue
    Assumption of Socially Constructed Reality
    Language Reflects Cultural Practices

Criticisms of Postmodern Psychology

    Realism
    Skepticism
    Relativism
      
The Promise of Postmodern Psychology

    The Discipline and Profession in Context
    Awareness of Values in Psychology
    Intercultural Dialogue
    Extending Conceptual Horizons
    Expanding Research Methodologies
    Enriching Applied Practice

DISCUSSION:

➢    Is there an objective and universal “truth” in psychology or multiple perspectives on human functioning?

➢    How can psychology remain a science if it is not value-neutral?

➢    Has psychology grown increasingly irrelevant to the surrounding issues of society and the world in general?