Change Always Takes Time
Patrick H. DeLeon, PhD, JD, ABPP, MPH
One of the most interesting consequences of being personally involved, over a prolonged period of time, within the governance of the American Psychological Association (APA) is being exposed on a first-hand basis to the range of experiences and collective views of members who represent various elements of the discipline and profession of psychology. For more than a quarter of a century, I have been fortunate to have had this fantastic experience. It has been extraordinarily enriching, both professionally and personally. At times, I am simply amazed that as a national organization APA has done so well in fostering collegial discussions between such fundamentally disparate psychological communities. Science, Practice, Public Interest, and Education—they really do have entirely different ways of viewing the world and establishing priorities. Yet, we are still all one family. This sense of membership cohesion speaks very well for the quality of individuals who, year in and year out, volunteer to personally participate within the governance. I suspect that this is also the case for other professional, educational, and scientific organizations and personnel—psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors—a phenomenon that speaks well for the future of our nation. As one of the “learned professions,” we have much to offer to one another and to society (DeLeon 8c Zimbardo, in press). My sincerest appreciation. Mahalo.
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