[Latin American psychology: a two-way start]

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• History of Science

Context:

• Psychological historiography is characterized by two primary trends: the Central-European focus on phenomenology and inner life, and the Anglo-American emphasis on empirical and pragmatic approaches.
• Latin America has historically mirrored these trends, significantly impacting undergraduate psychology education.

Purpose:

• To analyze the historical dichotomy in psychological historiography.
• To examine the influence of these trends on Latin American academic psychology.
• To discuss the shift occurring in the region's academic atmosphere due to modern psychological tendencies.

Summary:

• The study identifies a divergence in psychological historiography between Central-European phenomenological approaches and Anglo-American empirical methods.
• It highlights how Latin America's academic landscape, particularly undergraduate education, has been shaped by these distinct global trends.
• The research notes that contemporary shifts in psychology are challenging the continuation of this historical dichotomy in Latin America.

Impact:

• This analysis provides insight into the evolution of psychological thought and its regional manifestations.
• It suggests a move towards a more integrated or diversified approach in Latin American psychology.
• The findings indicate a potential transformation in the academic environment and curriculum of psychology in the region.