Global Indigenous Psychology is a field of study that focuses on understanding

psychological phenomena from the perspectives of Indigenous peoples worldwide. It

seeks to incorporate indigenous knowledge, traditions, and cultural practices into
psychology to provide more culturally relevant and sensitive approaches to mental
health and well-being. This field acknowledges the diversity among Indigenous cultures
and emphasizes the importance of community, spirituality, and interconnectedness in
understanding human behavior and psychological processes.

Imagine a research study conducted in a remote Indigenous community in the Amazon

rainforest. Traditional Western psychological measures might assess individualistic
constructs like self-esteem or personal achievement, but Global Indigenous Psychology
would approach the study differently.

Researchers in this field might engage with community elders to understand local
concepts of well-being, such as harmony with nature, intergenerational relationships, or
spiritual connectedness. They might use storytelling, art, or traditional ceremonies as
methods of data collection, recognizing that these methods align more closely with
Indigenous ways of knowing.

Through this approach, researchers could uncover unique insights into mental health
and well-being within the community, highlighting the importance of cultural context
and Indigenous perspectives in understanding psychological phenomena. This
illustration demonstrates how Global Indigenous Psychology seeks to bridge Western
psychological theories with Indigenous knowledge systems to create more culturally
relevant and effective interventions.

1.

Indeed, Global Indigenous Psychology can be seen as a reaction against the colonization
and hegemony of Western psychology. For centuries, Western psychological theories
and practices have dominated the field, often marginalizing or ignoring the perspectives
and experiences of Indigenous peoples.

In response, Global Indigenous Psychology seeks to decolonize the discipline by

challenging the Eurocentric biases and assumptions inherent in traditional psychology. It
emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity and the need to incorporate Indigenous
worldviews, knowledge, and practices into psychological research, theory, and therapy.
By centering Indigenous voices and experiences, Global Indigenous Psychology aims to
empower Indigenous communities and address the historical traumas and injustices
perpetuated by colonialism. It advocates for collaborative and culturally sensitive
approaches to mental health and well-being that honor and respect Indigenous ways of
knowing and being.

In essence, Global Indigenous Psychology represents a paradigm shift within the field,
challenging Western-centric perspectives and promoting a more inclusive and equitable
approach to understanding psychology.

Example:

Imagine a traditional Western therapy session with an Indigenous client. The therapist
may use standard psychological techniques and frameworks, which could
unintentionally overlook or dismiss the client's cultural background, values, and beliefs.

In contrast, in a Global Indigenous Psychology approach, the therapist engages in

culturally sensitive practices. They may begin by building rapport through storytelling or
incorporating traditional healing practices such as smudging or prayer, respecting the
client's cultural heritage and worldview.

During the session, instead of solely focusing on individualistic goals like personal
achievement or self-improvement, the therapist acknowledges the importance of
community, interconnectedness, and spirituality in the client's life. They may explore the
impact of historical trauma or systemic oppression on the client's mental health,
recognizing the broader socio-political context in which their experiences are situated.

Through this culturally responsive approach, the therapist creates a safe and supportive
space for the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, validating their
cultural identity and promoting holistic healing

This illustration demonstrates how Global Indigenous Psychology challenges the

colonization and hegemony of Western psychology by centering Indigenous knowledge,
values, and practices in therapeutic settings, ultimately leading to more culturally
relevant and effective mental health interventions.

2.The need for non-Western cultures to solve their local problems through Indigenous
practices and applications stems from the recognition that traditional Western
approaches may not always be suitable or effective in diverse cultural contexts. Here's
why:
 Cultural Relevance: Indigenous practices and applications are often deeply rooted
in local traditions, values, and ways of knowing. By incorporating these practices,
communities can address their challenges in a manner that resonates with their
cultural identity, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment

Holistic Approach: Indigenous practices tend to take a holistic view of health and
well-being, considering physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects as
interconnected. This holistic approach can offer comprehensive solutions that
address the complexity of local problems more effectively than narrow, symptom-
focused interventions.

Sustainability: Indigenous practices often prioritize sustainability and harmony

with the natural environment. By embracing these principles, communities can
develop solutions that are environmentally friendly and promote long-term
resilience, contributing to both human and ecological well-being.

Community-Centered Solutions: Indigenous practices typically emphasize the

importance of community and collective decision-making. By involving
community members in problem-solving processes and drawing upon their
collective wisdom, solutions can be tailored to local needs and context, fostering
social cohesion and resilience.

Healing from Historical Trauma: Many non-Western cultures have experienced

colonization, cultural assimilation, and historical trauma, leading to ongoing
social and psychological challenges. Indigenous practices and applications can
serve as a source of cultural revival, resilience, and healing, empowering
communities to reclaim their identity and address intergenerational trauma.

Overall, the integration of Indigenous practices and applications offers non-

Western cultures a pathway to address their local problems in culturally relevant,
sustainable, and empowering ways, fostering holistic well-being and resilience
within communities.

Example:
 Imagine a rural community in a non-Western country that is experiencing high
rates of depression and anxiety among its youth due to various socio-economic factors
and cultural changes. Traditional Western approaches to mental health, such as
medication and individual therapy, have limited accessibility and cultural relevance in
this context.

In response, community leaders collaborate with local elders and healers to integrate
Indigenous healing practices into mental health interventions. They organize community
gatherings that incorporate traditional ceremonies, storytelling, and group discussions
to address mental health concerns in a culturally sensitive manner.

During these gatherings, youth are encouraged to reconnect with their cultural roots,
participate in healing rituals, and share their experiences within a supportive community
setting. Elders and healers provide guidance, wisdom, and spiritual support, drawing
upon Indigenous knowledge systems to promote holistic well-being.

As a result of these efforts, youth in the community feel a sense of belonging,

connection, and empowerment. They develop coping skills rooted in their cultural
heritage, strengthen social bonds, and access resources for mental health support within
their community.

This example illustrates how integrating Indigenous practices and applications into
mental health interventions can address local problems in a culturally relevant,
sustainable, and empowering manner, fostering holistic well-being within non-Western
communities.

3.The need for a non-Western culture to recognize itself in the constructs and practices
of psychology arises from several key reasons:

Cultural Relevance: Psychology, as traditionally taught and practiced in the West, often
reflects Western cultural values, norms, and experiences. However, these may not fully
resonate with non-Western cultures. Recognizing themselves in psychological constructs
and practices allows non-Western cultures to integrate their unique perspectives, beliefs,
and experiences into the field, making it more culturally relevant and applicable to their
context.

Empowerment and Ownership: By recognizing themselves in psychology, non-Western

cultures can assert ownership over their mental health narratives and interventions. This
empowers communities to develop approaches that align with their cultural values and
address their specific needs, rather than relying solely on externally imposed
frameworks.

Validation of Indigenous Knowledge: Many non-Western cultures possess rich traditions

of understanding human behavior, emotions, and well-being that may differ from
Western psychological models. Recognizing themselves in psychology validates the
validity and value of indigenous knowledge systems, promoting cultural pride and self-
esteem within these communities.

Effective Mental Health Interventions: When psychological constructs and practices align
with the cultural context of non-Western societies, mental health interventions are more
likely to be accepted, understood, and effective. This recognition facilitates trust
between mental health practitioners and clients, leading to greater engagement and
better outcomes.

Decolonization of Psychology: Historically, psychology has been used as a tool of

colonialism, imposing Western ideals and standards onto non-Western cultures.
Recognizing themselves in psychology allows non-Western cultures to challenge and
decolonize the discipline, asserting their agency and reclaiming control over their
mental health narratives.

Overall, the need for a non-Western culture to recognize itself in the constructs and
practices of psychology is essential for promoting cultural relevance, empowerment,
effective interventions, validation of indigenous knowledge, and the decolonization of
the discipline.

4.the need to use indigenous philosophies and concepts to generate theories of global
discourse is crucial for promoting diversity, inclusivity, holistic understanding, cultural
respect, reconciliation, innovation, and creativity in addressing global challenges and
shaping a more equitable and sustainable world.

One example is the concept of "Bayanihan," which emphasizes communal unity,

cooperation, and mutual assistance. In the context of global discourse on environmental
sustainability, Bayanihan could inspire collaborative efforts among communities to
address environmental challenges such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change.
By incorporating concepts like Bayanihan into the discourse on environmental
sustainability in the Philippines, we can develop more inclusive, community-driven
approaches that honor indigenous wisdom, promote social cohesion, and foster
resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The influence between indigenous philosophies and global discourse is indeed two-way,
with each informing and enriching the other.

Overall, the two-way influence between indigenous philosophies and global discourse is
dynamic and reciprocal, shaping narratives, policies, and actions that reflect the
interconnectedness of humanity and the diversity of human wisdom.

embracing diversity is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for
building thriving, inclusive societies. By celebrating our differences and recognizing the
inherent value of each individual, we can create a more equitable, harmonious, and
prosperous world for all.

the Indigenous Psychology Movement represents a paradigm shift within the field of
psychology, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity, indigenous knowledge,
and social justice in understanding and promoting human well-being. It seeks to create
a more inclusive and equitable discipline that honors the voices and experiences of all
peoples, regardless of their cultural background or heritage

Movement goals: the Indigenous Psychology Movement seeks to create a more

inclusive, equitable, and culturally relevant approach to psychology that honors and
empowers indigenous peoples while promoting collaboration, respect, and social justice.

Division 32 of the American Psychological Association (APA) is known as the Society for
Humanistic Psychology. Task forces within Division 32 are established to address specific
issues or areas of interest within the field of humanistic psychology. These task forces
typically consist of members of the division who have expertise or interest in the
identified topic.

The specific focus and goals of a task force within Division 32 can vary widely depending
on the needs and priorities of the division at a given time.

They play an important role in shaping the direction of the division and contributing to
the broader field of psychology.
Goal 1: Develop a Mission Statement or Manifesto for Indigenous Psychology

Objective: To collaboratively create a mission statement or manifesto for Indigenous

Psychology that reflects the diverse perspectives, values, and aspirations of Indigenous
psychologies across the globe.

By developing a mission statement or manifesto for Indigenous Psychology that is

congenial to Indigenous psychologies across the globe, Division 32 aims to honor and
amplify Indigenous voices, promote cultural resilience and empowerment, and advance
the goals of decolonization and social justice within the field of psychology.

Goal 2: Dissemination of Knowledge Concerning Indigenous Psychology

To disseminate knowledge, research findings, and perspectives related to Indigenous

psychology through conferences, journals, and edited volumes, thereby promoting
awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Indigenous psychologies worldwide.

By disseminating knowledge concerning Indigenous psychology through conferences,

journals, and edited volumes, Division 32 aims to promote awareness, understanding,
and appreciation of Indigenous perspectives and approaches to psychology. This
dissemination effort contributes to the broader goals of cultural diversity, inclusivity, and
social justice within the field of psychology and beyond.

Basic tenets 1. Absolutely, Indigenous psychology is not about exoticizing or

romanticizing people from distant lands. Instead, it's about recognizing the diverse and
valuable perspectives that Indigenous communities offer to the broader understanding
of human psychology and well-being. Indigenous psychology encompasses the
knowledge, traditions, and practices of Indigenous peoples from around the world,
regardless of geographic location.

By centering Indigenous perspectives and experiences, Indigenous psychology aims to

challenge Western-centric biases and promote more inclusive, culturally sensitive
approaches to understanding human behavior and mental health. It's about recognizing
the value of diverse ways of knowing and being, regardless of whether they conform to
Western norms or standards.

Basic tenets 2. Indigenous psychology does not assume cultural relativity in the sense of
viewing all cultures as equal or interchangeable. Instead, it acknowledges and respects
the diversity of cultural perspectives, values, and practices without necessarily equating
them.

while Indigenous psychology embraces cultural diversity and sensitivity, it does not
assume cultural relativity in the sense of disregarding cultural differences or asserting
that all cultures are inherently equal. It aims to promote understanding, respect, and
collaboration among diverse cultural perspectives while recognizing the unique
contributions of each culture to our collective understanding of human psychology and
well-being.

Basic tenets 3. Indigenous psychology does not assume that one cultural perspective is
inherently superior to another. Instead, it acknowledges the value and validity of diverse
cultural perspectives and recognizes that each perspective offers unique insights and
contributions to our understanding of human psychology and well-being.

Ultimately, the goal of Indigenous psychology is to create a more inclusive and culturally
sensitive approach to understanding human psychology, one that recognizes and
celebrates the diversity of human experiences and perspectives without privileging any
one culture over another.

Basic tenets 4. acceptance of Indigenous psychologies does not limit the use of a
particular method. Indigenous psychologies encompass a wide range of approaches,
perspectives, and methodologies that are tailored to the cultural context and needs of
Indigenous communities. These methodologies can vary significantly depending on
factors such as cultural traditions, values, and epistemologies.

By embracing a diverse range of methodologies and approaches, Indigenous

psychologies can effectively address the complex and multifaceted issues facing
Indigenous communities while respecting and valuing their cultural heritage and
perspectives. This acceptance of diverse methods underscores the inclusive and
culturally sensitive nature of Indigenous psychology.

Basic tenets 5. Indigenous psychology should not be equated with cultural

anthropology. While both fields may intersect and share some commonalities, they have
distinct focuses, methodologies, and objectives.

Indigenous psychology primarily centers on understanding the psychological processes,

well-being, and experiences of Indigenous peoples from their own cultural perspectives.
It seeks to integrate Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and practices into the study and
practice of psychology, recognizing the importance of cultural context in shaping
individual and collective psychologies.

While there may be overlap between Indigenous psychology and cultural anthropology,
particularly in areas such as cultural competence and cross-cultural understanding, it's
important to recognize the distinct goals and approaches of each field. Indigenous
psychology offers a unique framework for understanding and addressing the
psychological needs and aspirations of Indigenous peoples, grounded in their own
cultural contexts and perspectives

In contrast, cultural anthropology is the study of human cultures and societies, with a
focus on understanding cultural diversity, social dynamics, and cultural practices. While
cultural anthropologists may study Indigenous cultures and communities, their primary
emphasis is on documenting and analyzing cultural phenomena from an outsider's
perspective, often employing ethnographic methods and cross-cultural comparisons.

Basic tenets 5. The concepts of indigenization from "within" and indigenization from
"without" refer to two different approaches to incorporating Indigenous perspectives,
knowledge, and practices into academic disciplines or institutions.

indigenization from within prioritizes Indigenous self-determination, agency, and

leadership in the process of incorporating Indigenous perspectives into academic
disciplines or institutions. It respects Indigenous knowledge systems, values, and
protocols, and emphasizes collaborative partnerships and reciprocal relationships with
Indigenous communities. On the other hand, indigenization from without may lack
meaningful engagement with Indigenous voices and may inadvertently reinforce
colonial dynamics if not approached with sensitivity, humility, and respect for Indigenous
self-determination.