Psychology's Role in Social Change

Psychology plays a large role in social change movements, especially the anti-bullying movement. According to Psychologists for Social Responsibilities (2014), psychology studies the science behind human behavior, which is completely relevant to the topic of bullying. With this in mind, Psychology professionals can educate the public on potential effects on behavior that are a result from bullying as well as they can counsel victims that may be having a hard time coping. Psychology professionals also use their role in social change to stop stigmas and build common ground so that people can all change together. According to “Stop Bullying” (2016), victims of bullying are prone to substance use, low self-esteem, depression, and even suicide, depending on the severity of the bullying. Also, those who do the bullying may also be suffering from issues that would be beneficial if addressed by psychology professionals. Psychology professionals can help heal the wounds of being bullied as well as the wounds that may be causing others to bully. Also, psychology professionals have an understanding of human emotions and ca help the public relate with specific emotions that should be associated with certain movements, such as sympathy, which then helps the public better engage with the movement (Yob & Brewer, 2015).

Psychology also

plays a large role in advocating for the greater society because this field is designed to understand human behavior so that positive changes can be made. According to “Psychologists for Social Responsibility” (2014), psychological knowledge, research, and practice can be used in an ethical manner to help better society as well as promote social change. When a positive change is made or attempted to be made, it is helping create a greater society. Psychology professionals are trained in understanding human behaviors so that they can help educate others of important topics in a more effective manner.

References

Psychologists for Social Responsibility. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.psysr.org/



Stop Bullying. (2016). Retrieved from http://www.stopbullying.gov/what-is-bullying/definition/index.html

 

Yob, I., & Brewer, P. (2015). Understanding and practicing social change in higher education. Manuscript submitted for publication.