The primary challenge psychology is facing is helping its scientists/researchers, trainers/educators, policy experts/advocates, students and clinicians/practitioners rethink and reinvent the field. It is critical that psychologists understand the extraordinary relevance of psychology to the entire human experience across myriad contexts - from the level of a neuron to that of societal interactions - and begin addressing critical issues in an innovative way. Once psychologists become comfortable “thinking outside the box,” psychology can actively contribute to limitless complex key topics ranging from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, to questions of quality assurance and regulation in the field, to artificial intelligence and health and well-being.
You have an important and distinct experience as a psychologist because you travel around the world and have very different realities. Can you talk a little bit about some of the most impact advocating efforts for psychology you have seen?
My position as Senior Director for the Office of International Affairs at the American Psychological Association grants me the privilege of learning about psychology across the world. I am inspired by the advocacy achievements of numerous psychological organizations in a range of locations. Efforts in advocacy vary pending the needs of a particular country or region and its systems and people. However, much progress is being made in incorporating psychological research into policies addressing rights for children with special needs, LGBTI+ individuals, integrated care, treatment for the seriously mentally ill, and community-based prevention/population health efforts to name a few.
What is the role of psychology for peace worldwide and what do you think must improve to address this issue?
As the study of human functioning from the brain to behavior, psychological science has much to contribute to world peace. For example, psychology can provide critical insights into the most effective ways to engage in meaningful and productive negotiations and discussions where conflict occurs. Psychology can further inform education based on critical thinking skills that allow children and, ultimately, adults, to become engaged citizens who focus on social justice. Additionally, psychological science advises us about communication processes and development of aims and goals – and these suggestions name a few. For psychology to actively contribute to world peace, psychologists must become actively involved in advocating for a role in key global issues.
What book would you recommend?
Reading is one of my favorite pastimes and I like to read a bit of everything from history to literature to leadership and children’s stories, as well as science documents. One of my favorite books about the meaning of life is, “The Velveteen Rabbit,” the story of a how love can make even inanimate objects – like a stuffed animal – real. I believe this idea of seeing others, accepting them, giving hope and caring about them is fundamental to being a psychologist.
What music do you enjoy?
I enjoy virtually all music, particularly when it is live and vocalists have very pure voices. One of the most powerful musical experiences I have had in my life was the night I heard Fado in a small restaurant in Lisbon a few years ago.
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Amanda Clinton, M.Ed., Ph.D., is the Senior Director for the Office of International Affairs at the American Psychological Association (APA). Prior to joining the APA, Dr. Clinton served as Full Professor of Psychology at the University of Puerto Rico where she specialized in culturally relevant prevention programs, early childhood, social-emotional development, and bilingualism. Dr. Clinton is a licensed psychologist and a credentialed school psychologist with experience in community clinics, pediatric hospitals, public schools, academic settings, and public policy. Dr. Clinton completed a AAAS Congressional Fellowship in the office of Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) where she helped write the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 (passed as 21st Century Cures). Dr. Clinton’s scholarly work includes publication of “Integrated Assessment of the Bilingual Child” and numerous peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, as well as Associate Editorship of both the Journal of Educational and Consulting Psychology(JEPC) and the Interamerican Journal of Psychology. Dr. Clinton has won several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship and SPSSI Educator/Mentor of the Year. Dr. Clinton earned her master’s degree at the University of Washington and her doctoral degree at the University of Georgia.
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Amanda Clinton, M.Ed., Ph.D., is the Senior Director for the Office of International Affairs at the American Psychological Association (APA). Prior to joining the APA, Dr. Clinton served as Full Professor of Psychology at the University of Puerto Rico where she specialized in culturally relevant prevention programs, early childhood, social-emotional development, and bilingualism. Dr. Clinton is a licensed psychologist and a credentialed school psychologist with experience in community clinics, pediatric hospitals, public schools, academic settings, and public policy. Dr. Clinton completed a AAAS Congressional Fellowship in the office of Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) where she helped write the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 (passed as 21st Century Cures). Dr. Clinton’s scholarly work includes publication of “Integrated Assessment of the Bilingual Child” and numerous peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, as well as Associate Editorship of both the Journal of Educational and Consulting Psychology(JEPC) and the Interamerican Journal of Psychology. Dr. Clinton has won several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship and SPSSI Educator/Mentor of the Year. Dr. Clinton earned her master’s degree at the University of Washington and her doctoral degree at the University of Georgia.
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