Toward a community psychology transformative praxis: A descriptive review

Area of Science:

• Community Psychology
• Social Transformation
• Praxis Theory

Background:

• The paper reviews foundational components for a Community Psychology Transformative Praxis.
• It analyzes published work from North American Community Psychology journals, specifically two US-based publications.
• The review critically examines the field's engagement with transformative efforts within a neoliberal and imperial context.

Approach:

• A descriptive review categorizing seven foundational dimensions for transformative praxis.
• Part 1 details three dimensions of transformative process: shared values, visions of a just world, and critical problem frames.
• Part 2 outlines four dimensions of transformative action: long-term planning, multiple levels of analysis, solidarity with impacted groups, and resistance to power structures.

Key Points:

• Seven dimensions are identified for initiating and sustaining transformative praxis in Community Psychology.
• These dimensions encompass both the process (values, visions, problem framing) and action (planning, levels of analysis, solidarity, power resistance).
• The relationship between process and action is explored, where process guides and bounds interventions.

Conclusions:

• The review highlights the need to move beyond ameliorative solutions towards truly transformative ones in Community Psychology.
• It calls for critical reflection and action to enhance the transformative potential of the field.
• The paper emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic issues and power dynamics for meaningful social change.