Repressers, Sensitizers and the Politics of School Psychology

Abstract

School psychology is represented by a national organization and by a specialty division within another national organization, is beset by internal differences about role definition and entry level and by external differences with professional psychology, all of which detracts from energies which should be devoted to more appropriate professional issues. Bardon has suggested that school psychology is at an impasse and has suggested a resolution. It is suggested here that sharp differences in political attitudes among leaders in the field may stem from differences in perceptual style. A series of political observations and prescriptions are presented from what may be a minority perceptual viewpoint. Bardon's proposal is reviewed and criticized from this same perceptual viewpoint.