Title
Ethnic Conflict and the Psychology of Liberation in Guatemala, Peru, and Puerto Rico
Date Issued
01 July 1998
Access level
metadata only access
Resource Type
journal article
Author(s)
Comas-Díaz L.
Lykes M.B.
Atlanta VA Medical Center
Publisher(s)
American Psychological Association Inc.
Abstract
Ethnic identity and conflict in Guatemala, Peru, and Puerto Rico are complexly embedded within dynamic systems of class- and race-based geopolitics. Whereas overt violence and terror have permeated both Guatemalan and Peruvian societies, covert conflict has undermined Puerto Rican nationhood. Despite similarities among these 3 countries of Hispano-America, there are important particularities that inform psychological theory and practice. This article explores selected contributions of a psychology of liberation informed by indigenous psychologies and reflexive praxis. The challenges these conflicts and their consequences pose to psychologists seeking to work with populations most deeply affected by these social inequalities are analyzed. It concludes with suggestions for how psychology can move toward the development of community-based responses to psychosocial oppression that foster enhanced individual and collective development in a context of social change.
Start page
778
End page
792
Volume
53
Issue
7
Language
English
OCDE Knowledge area
Sociología Psicología (incluye terapias de aprendizaje, habla, visual y otras discapacidades físicas y mentales)
Scopus EID
2-s2.0-0032113169
PubMed ID
Source
American Psychologist
ISSN of the container
0003066X
Sources of information: Directorio de Producción Científica Scopus