Optimal Theory’s Contributions to Understanding and Surmounting Global Challenges to Humanity

Abstract

In this article, we discuss challenges to and the triumphs of the production of psychological knowledge pertinent to human health and sustainable well-being, particularly as it relates to persons acknowledging African ancestry in hostile sociohistorical contexts. Primary attention will be paid to the advancement of the theory of optimal psychology, also known as optimal conceptual theory (OCT), a theory of human development culturally grounded in the wisdom tradition of African deep thought, identifiable from ancient civilization to contemporary times. The intention is to accomplish four aims: (a) present an overview based on one theoretical framework and practice of progress achieved in fulfillment of the Association of Black Psychologists mission, (b) provide an example of great successes employing OCT and belief systems analysis in a clinical practice for over 20 years, (c) share a small sampling of areas in the psychological and broader literature illustrating how OCT has been utilized, and (d) highlight areas of advancement in OCT and its expansion in the understanding of human functioning and development.