ABSTRACT
A feminist theory that is derived from the experiences of those theorizing requires the presence of women of color as generators of theory as subjects rather than objects. The focus on "difference" in psychology has walked into feminist theory unanalyzed; therefore, difference can be seen as natural and unchangeable and/or as signifying deficiency. Some efforts by feminist therapy theorists, for example those of the Feminist Therapy Institute and the recent Women of Color Institute of the Association for Women in Psychology raise the hopes about a new understanding and opening among white feminists. An important aspect of language usage for women of color is its connection with self-esteem and identity development. For women who speak more than one language, there is yet another component in the development of personality and the expression of psychopathology. Women of color are essential partners in the development of feminist psychology and feminist therapy.
