Liberation psychology : theory, method, practice, and social justice

Abstract

The book discusses liberation psychology, a discipline that encourages empowerment, healing, and transformation. Liberation psychology refers to the use of psychological approaches to understand and address oppression among individuals and groups. Liberation psychologists view oppression as the interaction of intrapsychic factors with systemic factors, such as sociopolitical injustice. They foster awareness of discrimination and inequality, fortify individuals' strengths, affirm cultural identities, and promote change to attenuate human suffering and improve people's lives. The book uses a testimonial voice (whether implicit or explicit) in several chapters, a liberation psychology method that relates in a more personal and intimate manner. Liberation psychology acts as a mirror for continuing reflexivity, a vehicle for critical awareness, a channel for healing, and a beacon for social justice.