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Advocacy, Overview

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Encyclopedia of Critical Psychology

Introduction

Many scholars, while developing a level of expertise in a particular area, find themselves poised to serve in a more public role outside of the walls of academia. Whether involved personally, through direct action, or indirectly through the use of their research, many academics embrace the role of an advocate. Advocacy can happen on behalf of individuals and/or groups. Mainstream professional psychological associations (i.e., APA, APS, BPS, SPSSI) have public policy offices and initiatives that promote the use of psychological research in advocating for particular issues. The decision-making process around what issues take center stage and the power and impact of professional advocacy is often a source of contention and debate among psychologists throughout the world. The role of advocates in the field of psychology has the potential to trigger critical notions around the idea of altruism and “giving back.” Injustices can still occur as the result of well-meaning...

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Correspondence to Kathleen M. Cumiskey .

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Cumiskey, K.M. (2014). Advocacy, Overview. In: Teo, T. (eds) Encyclopedia of Critical Psychology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-5583-7_547

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-5583-7_547

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