Paradigm lost? Reconsidering health psychology

Critical health psychology (CHP) is seen as entangled in the dilemma of where to locate itself in two ways: first, inside the original discipline-health psychology-or outside and in confrontation to it. Second, in the field of related disciplines like medical sociology and (new) public health. Drawing parallels to earlier discussions in medical sociology, CHP is seen in an ambiguous intention of being critical to health psychology and of becoming a professional field in health psychology. CHP has difficulties making itself distinct from new public health approaches. Two examples of research are briefly mentioned. They address health concepts of health professionals and representations and practices concerning health of homeless adolescents.