What Is Community Psychology? Principles & Application

Community psychology is concerned with communities as a context and the relationships within them. This field of psychology focusses on communities as a unit rather than individuals and is just one of many disciplines under the umbrella of psychology that can lead to valuable and fulfilling careers. For those interested in community-orientated activism and the ways people can come together, community psychology is an exciting area of study and work.

While fields like social psychology, counselling and health psychology have a few overlapping components, each has unique objectives and takes place in different settings. So, what is the focus of community psychology? Ahead, we breakdown the principles, practice and history of community psychology, alongside the study pathways that can get you there.

What is community psychology?

We often think of communities as geographic locations, but in reality, there are many different and varied kinds. Schools, family and friends, co-workers and support groups all make up communities, and each feature different social and psychological dynamics.

Different communities also have different needs and stressors. The social and psychological dynamics of a community will inform how individuals operate in and navigate the world. The principles of community psychology combine sociology, public health, ecology and psychology to help identify community issues and promote community mental health.

What do community psychologists do?

To benefit communities and recommend interventions, a community psychologist conducts action-orientated research. Their research helps to inform data-driven support and define the unique needs of a community. The field of community psychology came into practice in the 1950s, after World War II, and in the decades since, careers in community psychology have expanded.

Becoming a psychologist in this field can lead you to these potential career paths, including:

• Government health and other agencies
• Non-profit organisations
• Social work
• Teaching
• Consultation and research firms
• Counselling.

Types of community psychology

Because communities are so wide-ranging, community psychology can be used in a number of different contexts. Mental health, social equity and education are all focus areas. Below, we’ve highlighted some specific features of communities that may be researched and supported through the principles of community psychology.

Homelessness

To address homelessness in a community, a community psychologist researches the root causes and symptoms. Results of their research will identify barriers that may prevent someone from securing and maintaining stable accommodation, and from there, interventions can be recommended. Community psychologists may be engaged to research homelessness on behalf of:

• Street outreach programs
• Homeless shelters
• Affordable housing programs
• Mental health services.

Pollution

As communities contend with polluted environments they can become increasingly affected. Impacted air quality, water supply issues and a changing climate places pressure on the health, ecology and economy of communities. A community psychologist gathers data on how pollution is affecting specific communities, before presenting how laws and business regulations can improve quality of life. Types of community psychology careers this research relates to can include:

• Environmental lobby groups
• Policy development
• Environmental consultancy.

Gender

How we relate to gender and the ways that institutions engage with individuals can have a profound effect on communities and the groups that exist within them. This focus could be a component of clinical community psychology or a broader part of community psychology research. Research and support may focus on gender discrimination at work and community inclusion, and may be implemented in the following workplaces:

• Mental health practices
• Women’s advocacy
• Individual/group practices
• University counselling
• Crisis counselling services.

Study pathways to become a community psychologist

Like any career in psychology, you’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree, fourth-year honours studies and final exams to work as a community psychologist. Consider the time needed to complete courses as well as course fees. 100% online courses offer a new way of studying fields like community psychology.

Psychologist study pathways:

1. In the first phase of studies you’ll need to complete a three-year undergraduate psychology degree or Graduate Diploma in Psychology. This will gain you access to fourth-year psychology studies.
2. An honours degree in psychology or Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) follows, which provides eligibility for provisional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia.
3. To gain general registration there are three options. The first is by completing a two-year internship. Alternatively, you can complete a Master of Professional Psychology (1 year) alongside a 1-year internship. Note that both pathways require you to pass the National Psychology Exam. The third option is to complete a Master of Psychology (2 years) or a doctorate in Psychology (3–4 years). This option does not require you to pass the National Psychology Exam.

If you’re interested in social activism and the potential for communities and individuals to prosper, a career in community psychology could be an exciting career choice for you.

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