| This theoretical dissertation, utilizing a critical review of selected literature, presents a working philosophical-psychological exploration of a relationship between psychology and spirituality in Liberation Psychology. Application to praxis in psychology and Marital and Family Therapy (MFT) is noted. Liberation, understood as the discovery of and growth in personal and social ways of being that come with freedom, responsibility, and service, is presented in response to oppression of the marginalized. Content, history, and viable expressions of Liberation Psychology and its parent, Liberation Theology, are included. A spiritual theme that runs through Liberation Theology, Liberation Psychology, and related philosophies and social movements of liberation is articulated. The epistemology of Liberation Psychology presents diverse theories that focus on transformation in response to the people's need for liberation. The dialectic within Liberation Psychology and consequent praxis is presented.As a response to individual, social, political, economic, and spiritual oppression that grew out of Latin America, emphasis is upon consciousness of injustice by the organized action of the collective, which can inform the moral, ethical, and professional obligation to psychology and MFT. The philosophy, social movements, and spirituality expressed as Liberation Psychology and thought of prominent figures whose work expands the understanding of Liberation Psychology are reviewed in terms of a social democracy whose process focused on social transformation on behalf of the oppressed. The concept of soul in Liberation Psychology receives special note and is emphasized.Liberation Psychology requires a commitment to liberate people and their societies and also the transformation of sociopolitical contexts that oppress and marginalize. Postcolonial psychology and a humanistic existential orientation to spiritual commitment in Liberation Psychology are addressed. |
