Feminists and Psychological Practice

This book gives voice to the developing feminist critique of the position of women within academic and professional psychology. Drawing on the experiences and perspectives of students, teachers, researchers and practitioners, it explores how psychology functions to maintain power structures and practices which often exclude and oppress women. The authors address the issues that face feminists who attempt to counter these structures and practices, approaching the topic from a wide range of viewpoints reflecting different class, cultural and political positions. They question feminist as well as mainstream psychological practice. They confront the central feminist dilemma over whether to work within or outside "the system". The implications of the discussion resonate far beyond the specific context of the profession of psychology. The changing landscape of health and education puts psychology under increasing pressure to prove its efficacy, and women academics and practitioners currently face the prospect of working within patriarchal management increasingly governed by market forces.
"Feminists and Psychological Practice" provides material for courses in the psychology of women, the history and sociology of psychology, women's studies and gender studies.