Themes in Peace Psychology Research

Abstract

In this chapter we have organized concepts, themes, and theories of research and practice in peace psychology within a 2 x 2 x 2 matrix that considers not only episodic and structural violence and peace, but also a third dimensions that takes into account objective versus subjective forms of violence and peace. This third dimension is important considering the subjective nature of many aspects of the human experience. These subjective or symbolic representations of the world can take the form of individual and collective memories, narratives, beliefs, and ideologies. We have also suggested that these concepts, themes, and theories in peace psychology may vary by degrees of integration or differentiation with some concepts highly integrative, whereas others apply to the psychological components of specific kinds of violence and peace. In addition, using a systems perspective, we have demonstrated how violence and peace are inextricably woven into the fabric of societal institutions and structure resulting in episodes of peace and violence. We offered examples of the kinds of violence and peace that are focal in various geo-historical contexts around the world, and noted that underlying many of the violent episodes are structures that are themselves violent as well as collective narratives and individual beliefs that support and sustain violence. Hence, sustainable peace would need to go beyond mere peacemaking strategies and include peace building to transform violent structures in society. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)