ERIC Number: EJ963628
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1047-4412
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Ecological Psychology: Potential Contributions to Social Justice and Advocacy in School Settings
Williams, Joseph M.; Greenleaf, Arie T.
Journal of Educational & Psychological Consultation, v22 n1-2 p141-157 2012
Inequities and disparities of various forms exist in public schools that significantly impact the academic success and healthy development of many students. The detrimental effects of social injustices within schools are often ignored by school-based professionals (SBPs) because an entrenched intrapsychic perspective dominates the professional discourse. In this article we explain how the medical model, and its discursive articulation in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.; American Psychiatric Association, 2000), discourages SBPs from engaging in social justice advocacy in school settings. Next, we describe the ecological paradigm necessary for assessing and treating environmental-based problems within the ecosystem of students. We then argue that ecological psychology provides SBPs with a professional discourse that frames the need for social justice advocacy and action. Finally, we provide specific ways in which SBPs can become knowledgeable and empowered advocates both with and on behalf of K-12 students and their families.
Descriptors: Social Justice, Elementary Secondary Education, Mental Disorders, Service Learning, Ecology, Psychology, Advocacy, Public Schools, Academic Achievement, Psychologists, Counselors, Educational Environment, School Counselors, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A

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