Q1: What concrete steps should APA take to enhance its science agenda, including recognition of psychology as a STEM discipline and communication of the science of psychology? How will you convey to government funding agencies, professional associations and the public that psychology is a STEM discipline?
Initially, I will seek information about science agenda initiatives across the APA directorates and the divisions. A program to create and sustain changes in both policy and practice needs three components (3Ps): A Plan (Cognition), Passion (Affect) and Persistence (Behavior). I will work on a plan that systematically builds on collaborations, negotiated leadership roles and communications that sustain passion and persistence.
Also, responsibility for communication about psychological science can be shared by "citizen psychologists" who participate in community activities as well as who can pursue the reporting of scientific findings in local newspaper columns.
Q2: What are your ideas as to how APA can take a leadership role in health-care reform and ensure the inclusion of psychologists in these reforms?
Psychology is a field that focuses on enhancing the quality of people's lives. APA members have great potential as engaged citizen psychologists residing in communities with deep personal connections to individuals and organizations. Consequently, access to affordable health care matters to us because it concerns our neighbors across the developmental continuum. APA can leverage psychologists' contacts in local and state governments and accountable care organizations, as well as through the efforts of APA's government relations staff in Washington, D.C. Collaborations with other professions and policymakers can effectively influence health reforms at all levels.