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PPA Social Justice

PPA Social Issues Proposal Review

The Pennsylvania Psychological Association (PPA) is dedicated to addressing social issues where psychological science can positively influence public opinion or policy. To streamline responses to member concerns about emerging social issues, the PPA Social Issues Workgroup developed a formal protocol for evaluating and taking a stand on such matters.

Background

The workgroup, comprised of PPA leaders and members with a vested interest in social justice, included:

  • An Emerging Leader
  • PPA President
  • PPA President-Elect
  • Licensed psychologists and engaged PPA members

Meetings were conducted in November 2018 and March 2019, using social justice guidelines established by the Kentucky Psychological Association as a framework.

This initiative aligns with PPA’s Vision and Mission Statements:

PPA Vision Statement
The Pennsylvania Psychological Association promotes the science and practice of psychology by supporting psychologists to meet the evolving needs of the public.

PPA Mission Statement

  • Effectively communicate to the public, policymakers, and membership the value of evidence-based and ethical practice.
  • Support the lifelong learning of competent and ethical psychologists.
  • Promote and connect our membership to foster a community of professional psychologists.

Social Justice Advocacy

PPA’s Social Justice Advocacy efforts aim to address societal inequalities and enhance access to resources for disadvantaged or marginalized groups through:

  • Facilitating community building
  • Empowering communities
  • Supporting community organizing and activism
  • Providing training for allies
  • Conducting educational interventions and political strategizing

Decision-Making Process

To ensure thoughtful consideration of social issues, PPA has established the following steps:

  1. Proposal Submission

    • Submit a detailed proposal explaining the relevance of the issue to psychology or psychologists, supported by scientific or empirical data.

  2. Required Proposal Components

    • Extent to which the proposal aligns with PPA’s Vision and Mission.
    • Review of other organizations’ positions (e.g., APA).
    • Discussion of how taking a position could constructively impact public opinion or policy.
    • Analysis of how the issue may support or conflict with current and future legislative initiatives.

  3. Review and Screening

    • Complete the form below

Contact Information

For questions about this process or assistance with submitting a proposal, please contact Ann Marie at annmarie@papsy.org.

PPA is committed to fostering positive societal change by using psychological science to inform meaningful public discourse.