Presidential Programming

For his presidential programs, James H. Bray, PhD, is highlighting the subject areas and work of his three presidential task forces.

The Future of Psychology Practice

Friday, August 7
10:00–11:50am

Chair: James H. Bray, PhD

Participants: Carol D. Goodheart, EdD; Robert Gresen, PhD; Gary C. Hawley, PsyD; Margaret B. Heldring, PhD; Tammy L. Hughes, PhD; Jennifer F. Kelly, PhD; Jana N. Martin, PhD; Susan H. McDaniel, PhD; Katherine C. Nordal; and Sandra L. Shullman, PhD

Description: APA President James Bray commissioned the Task Force on the Future of Psychology Practice to address current issues in the practice of psychology and identify models and policies for the future of psychology practice. Psychological practice in the 21st century requires visionary adaptation of traditional practice strategies to take advantage of the new possibilities in society. The first hour of the presidential programming session will feature a presentation of the work of the task force and the outcome of the Summit on the Future of Psychology Practice.  The second half of the program will be an hour-long, town-hall style discussion between the panel and audience.

The Future of Psychological Science as a STEM Discipline

Friday, August 7
12:00–12:50pm

Chair: John Dovidio, PhD

Participants: Steve Breckler, PhD; Cynthia Belar, PhD; and John Dovidio, PhD

Description: With advances in neuroscience, genetics, and translational research, psychology is more relevant than ever and we must take advantage of these opportunities to remain a vibrant and productive discipline.  However, psychological science is usually not viewed as one of the core science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, despite the application and relevance to each of these fields. APA President James Bray has created a task force to examine this issue and make recommendations for promoting psychology as a STEM discipline.  This program will discuss the goals for the task force and create opportunities for community discussion.

Psychology’s Contributions to End Homelessness

Saturday, August 8
3:00–3:50pm

Chair: James H. Bray, PhD

Participants: Paul A. Toro, PhD; Beryl Ann Cowan, JD, PhD; Seymour Z. Gross, PhD; and Joseph E. Shumacher, PhD

Description: Homeless adults often come from families with long-standing dysfunctional patterns, such as addiction, domestic violence, childhood physical and sexual abuse, and chronic illness and disability. These patterns contribute to the development of psychological symptoms that result in homelessness. Homeless adults have difficulty gaining access to medical and psychological treatment and often use emergency centers at hospitals or temporary shelters to meet their needs. These adults lack basic resources, such as food, shelter, and transportation. Education, race, culture, and class pose additional barriers. Indigent, marginalized adults often feel powerless in negotiating the medical and mental health bureaucracies. However, with appropriate psychological help and resources these adults can become productive citizens.

Also of interest

Convention Within the Convention

This year’s convention features 97 hours of special programming coordinated by APA President James H. Bray with the support of numerous divisions, boards, and committees.

Presidential Address

This year's address is titled "The Future of Psychology Practice and Science" and will be given by APA President James H. Bray, PhD.

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