The Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race, a Division of the American Psychological Association (APA), is the major representative body for psychologists who conduct research on ethnic minority concerns or who apply psychological knowledge and techniques to ethnic minority issues. The Division’s purpose is to advance psychology as a science and to promote public welfare through research, to apply research findings towards addressing ethnic minority issues, and to encourage professional relationships among psychologists with these interests.

It also represents ethnic minority concerns within the governance of the APA.

Program

From its inception, the Division has sponsored programs at the annual convention of the APA. Programs have included scientific papers, symposia, and poster sessions through which the membership of the Division and those interested in the application of psychological principles in ethnic minority issues could exchange ideas and disseminate research findings. Reflective of the diversity of interests within the division, topics have covered a range of ideas related to ethnic minorities which include psycho-social stress, HIV/AIDS, development of self-identity, psychological assessment, substance abuse, sexuality and sex roles, and other topics.

Activities

Members benefit by having a forum in which to present their ideas and research, receive current information on the work of others, and have the opportunity to interact with others about their work throughout the year. The Division has several forums, including a convention program at APA conventions, a listserv for those who like to keep in close communication with others in the Division with regard to the goals and mission of the Division, and sponsorship of various conferences throughout the year. The profession benefits by having open discussions of ideas and topics directly relevant to the application of psychological principles to ethnic minority issues and by advancing the knowledge base of the profession.