Core Assumptions and Values in Community Psychology: A Christian Reflection

Abstract

From the beginning, community psychologists made many of the assumptions behind their theories and methodologies explicit, openly articulating values at the core of their discipline. As a result, community psychology's foundational principles may be readily appraised by any who wish to seriously reflect upon them. This article introduces a set of assumptions and values commonly agreed upon within community psychology: (1) the ecological perspective as a lens for viewing human behavior, (2) adaptation as the means of development and change, (3) wellness as a focus over psychopathology, (4) prevention and promotion as priorities over treatment (5) collaborative, empowering helping relationships, (6) justice as a prominent goal of action, (7) research as wedded to action, and (8) human diversity reflected theories and methods. These core values and assumptions are examined from an integrative perspective and illustrated in practice through an example taken from the author's work as a consultant.