PSYC 4100 Assessment 4 History and Influence of the New School of Thought History and Influence of the New School of Thought

Feminist psychology surfaced during the 1960s and 1970s in reaction to the prevalent dominance of male-oriented viewpoints within the discipline (Matsick et al., 2021). It sought to challenge traditional psychological theories and methodologies by centering on the experiences and perspectives of women. Feminist psychology not only critiqued existing theories for their androcentrism but also aimed to address the unique psychological issues faced by women, such as gender discrimination, stereotyping, and the unequal distribution of power in society. By emphasizing the interrelation of gender with additional social facets like race, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation, feminist psychology facilitated the development of a more encompassing and interconnected method to comprehend human behavior and mental well-being. Its influence extends beyond academia, shaping clinical practice, policy-making, and activism aimed at promoting gender equality and social justice.

Founding Figures, Events, and Ideas of the School of Thought

Feminist psychology originated during the 1960s and 1970s as a reaction to the prevailing dominance of perspectives centered around males in the discipline. It sought to challenge traditional psychological theories and methodologies by centering on the experiences and perspectives of women. Feminist psychology not only critiqued existing theories for their androcentrism but also aimed to address the unique psychological issues faced by women, such as gender discrimination, stereotyping, and the unequal distribution of power in society (Beck et al., 2021). By illuminating the interconnections between gender and various social identities like race, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation, feminist psychology fostered the development of a broader and more intersectional perspective on comprehending human behavior and mental well-being. Its influence extends beyond academia, shaping clinical practice, policy-making, and activism aimed at promoting gender equality and social justice.

Founding Figures

Feminist psychology was propelled by the works of pioneering figures such as Carol Gilligan, Nancy Chodorow, and Jean Baker Miller (Fotaki, 2022). Carol Gilligan’s groundbreaking book “In a Different Voice” challenged Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, arguing that women often approach ethical dilemmas from a different perspective, emphasizing care and relationships over abstract principles. Nancy Chodorow’s work on the development of gender identity and Jean Baker Miller’s contributions to relational-cultural theory also laid the foundation for feminist critiques of traditional psychological concepts.

Events

The socio-political context of the 1960s and 1970s, characterized by the feminist movement, set the stage for the emergence of feminist psychology. The movements advocating for women’s liberation challenged established gender norms and called for acknowledgment of women’s experiences across different fields, including psychology (Elsby, 2020). The release of significant publications like Betty Friedan’s “The Feminine Mystique” and the introduction of women’s studies programs in universities added to the increasing traction of feminist viewpoints within psychology.

Ideas

Feminist psychology introduced several key ideas that reshaped the field. These include the critique of androcentric biases in research, the recognition of gender as a social construct, and the emphasis on the interconnectedness of personal and political experiences. Feminist psychologists also developed methodologies such as qualitative research and participatory action research to better capture the complexity of women’s lives (Abrams et al., 2020). Intersectionality, a concept pioneered by Kimberlé Crenshaw, became central to feminist psychology, highlighting the intersecting systems of oppression that shape individuals’ experiences based on their intersecting identities.

Historical and Societal Influences

Feminist psychology emerged as a response to historical and societal influences that marginalized women’s experiences within the field of psychology (Morison, 2021). Throughout history, women were often excluded from academic and professional spheres, resulting in a scarcity of studies regarding their psychological experiences and requirements. During the 1960s and 1970s, the feminist movement contested conventional gender roles and demanded recognition of women’s voices in various domains, including psychology. Significant occurrences like the release of Betty Friedan’s “The Feminine Mystique” and the founding of women’s studies programs. in universiti