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The Development of Psychology in Papua New Guinea: A Brief Review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 May 2015

Leo Marai
Leo Marai*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, University of Papua New Guinea, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
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Abstract

The development of psychology in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is briefly and critically reviewed in this paper. The primary foci in PNG, both in teaching and research, have been clinical psychology and selection testing. Despite significant developments during the colonial era, the period since independence has witnessed a stagnation, as reflected in outmoded selection procedures, low employer awareness of psychology, and a dearth of relevant, indigenous research. The primary causes of this stagnation are identified as cross-cultural psychology, the influence of expatriates, and political decisions. The paper concludes with some suggestions for regenerating psychology in PNG, including a project to assess what Papua New Guineans themselves would expect from any genuine indigenisation process.

Type
Articles
Information
South Pacific Journal of Psychology , Volume 9 , 1997 , pp. 1 - 6
Copyright
Copyright © University of Papua New Guinea & the University of Newcastle, Australia 1997

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