Creating indigenous psychologies

John G. Adair

pp. 467-485

in: Uichol Kim, Kuo-Shu Yang, Kwang-Kuo Hwang (eds), Indigenous and cultural psychology, Berlin, Springer, 2006

Abstract

This analysis of indigenous psychologies has shown how an empirical study of discipline indigenization offers a different view of the process that can inform the thinking of researchers engaged in indigenous work. At the same time, it can be used to provide an objective assessment of where the discipline is as a counterbalance to hopes of where it might be or of negativism regarding its lack of development. Empirical data also provide a baseline against which to judge the impact of calls for indigenization or other historical events within each country. It is particularly helpful for providing insights into the variables that influence the indigenization process and its development within a country. In summary, a rigorous, empirical social study of the science can be used to assist psychologists in majority-world countries to realize their goal of creating an effective indigenous discipline.