Psychology: The American Approach

The major focus of this chapter is upon psychology in the United States as an example of an indigenous psychology that has in many respects dominated the history and development of psychology around the globe. Accordingly, we examine some of the fundamental ideas of American psychology and their applications. We also examine the dynamics of global and local forces as they impact psychology in the United States, and identify three critical challenges facing psychology here as well as in other countries and cultures. We conclude the chapter by emphasizing the importance of applied knowledge grounded in solid data sets and theory.