May Discussion Paper
Pedro R. Portes prport01@louisville.edu
Cultural Historical Theory and the Practice of Counseling & Psychotherapy
http://communication.ucsd.edu/MCA/Paper/Portes/portes.html
This article acquaints readers interested in psychotherapy and counseling
with a relatively new, emerging socio-cultural theory. It provides snapshots
, as well as implications of some of the basic contributions stemming from
cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT). The theory or approach
originated at a time when psychology was carving a scientific identity and
to define the content boundaries and methods for the study of mind (van der
Veer & Valsiner, 1994). In the latter part of this century, it has evolved
considerably and its presence felt in various disciplines. Like other major
paradigms in psychology, it carries implications for several
sub-disciplines such as counseling and education. Unlike them, the theory
represents perhaps a meta-paradigm because its focus extends beyond the
development of individuals in changing social
contexts in ways that integrate many current theories, and their development
in a historical, social context. Unfortunately, extending this multi-level,
dialectical model is difficult. It must be limited here to capture only some
of the most basic themes and ideas that might interest those interested in
the connection between mental health and a new psychology. The rest will
hopefully be extended in future writings on this topic.
Up on MCA entry page as usual.
http://communication.ucsd.edu/MCA/
Nate Schmolze
http://www.geocities.com/nate_schmolze/
schmolze@students.wisc.edu
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