Choose A Country Other Than The US And Conduct Research
Choose A Country Other Than The US And Conduct Research On Psychology
Choose a country other than the US and conduct research on psychology as it is practiced in that country. Your report must be based upon at least two sources. Your report should clearly provide the reader with a good overview of the discipline of psychology in your chosen country. In your report you should attempt to address the following topics: 1) A brief history of the discipline in that country; 2) The degree to which psychology has been imported from other countries; 3) The relative importance of scientific or academic research and applied psychology; 4) The status of psychology as a profession; 5) The level and type of training necessary to become a professional psychologist; 6) The major theoretical orientation(s) and whether if any one theoretical orientation dominates; 7) Major research trends or focuses; and 8) Professional organizations and codes of ethics.
Paper For Above instruction
The development and practice of psychology vary significantly across countries due to cultural, educational, and socio-political factors. For this paper, I will focus on the discipline of psychology in Japan, a country with a rich history of integrating Western scientific principles while retaining traditional cultural perspectives.
Historical Development of Psychology in Japan
Psychology in Japan has a unique history that intertwines indigenous philosophical ideas with Western scientific traditions. Early psychological thought in Japan was influenced by Buddhism and Confucianism, emphasizing self-awareness and moral development. The Western influence began in the late 19th century during the Meiji Restoration, which aimed to modernize Japan and adapt Western sciences including psychology. The establishment of psychological laboratories and academic programs in Japanese universities in the early 20th century marked the beginning of formal psychology education (Takahashi, 1999). Post-World War II, Japan experienced rapid growth in scientific research and higher education, leading to an expansion of psychological sciences' scope and application.
Importation of Western Psychology
Japan's psychological framework has been heavily influenced by Western theoretical models, particularly American and European psychology. Translation of key texts and international collaboration facilitated the adoption of experimental psychology, clinical approaches, and psychometric methods (Yamamoto, 2007). However, Japanese psychology also maintains traditional perspectives, especially in fields like counseling and education, which integrate indigenous cultural concepts such as "amae" (dependence) and harmony within social groups. The importation of Western psychology was substantial but has been moderated by a desire to preserve unique cultural values.
Scientific vs. Applied Psychology
In Japan, scientific research in psychology enjoys considerable respect, especially within academia and government research institutions such as the National Institute of Development and Evaluation. Applied psychology, especially in clinical, educational, and organizational settings, is also highly relevant but tends to operate within culturally specific frameworks. The integration of scientific and applied psychology is evident in areas like workplace assessment and mental health services, demonstrating a balanced emphasis on research-based practices and real-world application (Kobayashi & Kano, 2014).
Status of Psychology as a Profession
Psychology is regarded as a credible and respected profession in Japan, but it differs from other health professions in terms of societal perception. Psychologists often work in academic settings, hospitals, or corporate environments. Unlike the United States, where licensing and certification are well-established, Japan has a combination of government-licensed clinical psychologists and other mental health practitioners. The Japanese Psychological Association (JPA), established in 1934, advocates for the professional development and regulation of psychologists (JPA, 2022).
Education and Training Requirements
Becoming a licensed psychologist in Japan typically involves completing a relevant university degree, either at the undergraduate or graduate level. Advanced training includes master's and doctoral programs, emphasizing both research skills and clinical competencies. The specific training necessary can vary, but generally, candidates must undertake supervised practical training and pass national or regional licensing examinations. Continuing education is increasingly emphasized to maintain professional standards (Yamamoto & Saito, 2018).
Theoretical Orientations and Dominance
Japanese psychologists employ various theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic approaches. Currently, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most prominent in both research and clinical practice, driven by its proven efficacy and compatibility with Western scientific models. Nonetheless, culturally oriented approaches that consider indigenous values remain influential, especially in psychotherapy and counseling contexts. The dominance of CBT reflects a broader trend favoring empirically supported treatments (Tanaka et al., 2020).
Research Trends and Focus
Major trends in Japanese psychology include cross-cultural psychology, with an emphasis on understanding Western and Eastern perspectives; social psychology, focusing on group harmony and social hierarchies; and clinical psychology, addressing mental health issues amidst societal changes. Recent research has also investigated the impact of digital technology on mental health, particularly among youth, and the role of societal stressors, such as aging populations and economic pressures. These trends demonstrate a commitment to tackling contemporary societal challenges with scientific rigor (Kato, 2016).
Professional Organizations and Ethical Standards
The primary organization, the Japanese Psychological Association, regulates practice standards and promotes research. The JPA has established codes of ethics aligned with international standards, emphasizing confidentiality, professional competence, and cultural sensitivity. Membership provides a platform for continuing education, professional networking, and advocacy. Ethical guidelines are periodically revised to reflect evolving societal expectations and international best practices (JPA, 2022).
Conclusion
Psychology in Japan exemplifies a dynamic interplay between international scientific advances and traditional cultural values. It has evolved from indigenous ancient philosophies to a rigorous scientific discipline influenced predominantly by Western models, yet still retaining unique Japanese perspectives. As the field continues to develop, the integration of empirical research with culturally sensitive practices will be crucial for meeting the mental health needs of Japanese society.
References
- Kato, T. (2016). Contemporary issues in Japanese psychology: Cross-cultural perspectives. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 47(5), 658-673.
- Japanese Psychological Association (JPA). (2022). Ethical guidelines for psychologists in Japan. JPA Publications.
- Kobayashi, S., & Kano, M. (2014). Applied psychology in Japan: Trends and developments. International Journal of Psychology, 49(2), 122-130.
- Takahashi, H. (1999). The history of psychology in Japan: From tradition to modernization. Asian Journal of Social Psychology, 2(3), 213-231.
- Tanaka, H., Saito, Y., & Fujimoto, K. (2020). Cognitive-behavioral therapy in Japan: Adoption and adaptation. Japan Journal of Clinical Psychology, 36(4), 225-240.
- Yamamoto, K. (2007). Western influence on Japanese psychology: A historical perspective. Japanese Psychological Research, 49(3), 190-203.
- Yamamoto, M. & Saito, M. (2018). Education and certification of psychologists in Japan: A review. Asian Psychology Journal, 11(2), 147-165.