Latin American community psychology: Development, implications, and challenges within a social change agenda

Abstract

A brief history of the development of community psychology (CP) and of its academic evolution in Latin America is presented, highlighting its roots in Paulo Freire's adult education model, in critical sociology, and in social psychology. The main theoretical influences and topics are discussed, showing how CP embraced a line of research and action engaged with social change for Latin American countries. This research and action perspective united theory and practice while incorporating the people's participation and changing the role to be played by psychologists, and it incorporated new social actors. This development also integrated specific ontological, epistemological, political, methodological and ethical considerations, expressed in its work concerning community organization, health, housing, environmental, and educational needs in both urban and rural communities. A description of CP's academic development in most Latin American countries is made. Also, we highlight the emphasis placed on a reconceptualization of the notion of power, and in empowerment, in order to generate conscious citizens able to manage and transform their living conditions, stressing the role played by participatory methods developed simultaneously. Perspectives on the future directions of CP in Latin America and a comparison with the development of the field in some other countries are also addressed. © 2007 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.