1. Psychology 4510 Spring 2014 Allana Zuckerman, M.A.
Community Psychology
Psychology 4510
Spring 2014
Allana Zuckerman, M.A.

2. Today’s Overview Opening activity debrief Perspective Taking
Individualistic perspective
Structural perspective
Definitions
What is community psychology?
First and Second Order Change
Definitions of first and second order change
Applying these definitions to real world issues
Class discussion on ways to apply these concepts

3. Perspective Taking and Problem Definition
Individualistic perspective
Focus on individual attributes that contribute to human behavior
Structural perspective
How systems (e.g., organizations, neighborhoods, communities and societies) influence human behavior

4. Definition
“Community psychology concerns the relationships of individuals with communities and societies. By integrating research with action, it seeks to understand and enhance quality of life for individuals, communities, and societies.”
(Kloos et al., 2012, p.12)

5. First and Second Order Change
First order change: Individualistic Perspective
Reaction to pressing needs
Adjust to the system
Second order change: Structural perspective
Focus on changing social roles and power relationships that create the problem
Tensions between change versus stability makes Second Order change difficult – BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE!

6. Examples of First and Second Order Change: Differential treatment of LGBTQ Couples
First order change
Make it easier for those discriminated against to file grievances
Report people who discriminated against members of LGBTQ community and have them reprimanded
Receive recognition and compensation for losses
Second order change
Identify and change policies that are discriminatory
Legalize gay marriage
Reform tax policies that discriminate against gay couples
Institute and enforce state or local no-tolerance anti-bullying laws
Encourage tougher penalties for committing hate crimes

7. Homelessness
First order change?
Second order change?

8. Final Points
Community psychology takes a structural perspective to understanding human behavior and conditions
Second order change includes an understanding of how structural and systemic factors contribute to societal problems