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?
It is critical that psychologists and other STEM scientists come together to address the major challenges of our time — e.g., chronic disease, climate change, sustainability, overpopulation and terrorism. By leading an interdisciplinary effort with other scientific organizations to address some of these challenges, APA can also increase other scientists' and the public's understanding of psychology as a core STEM discipline. Potential products of this collaboration may include journal articles, interdisciplinary presentations at conferences, advocacy for funding, recommendations for interdisciplinary education and innovative approaches to public education such as TED talks and webinars.
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?
The most effective avenue for strengthening psychology's position in health-care reform — our mission, advocacy and funding — is through developing strong alliances with other health organizations. My vision and commitment will be for APA to convene an inter-organizational work group with the national leaders of primary-care medical and nursing organizations to develop guidelines for interdisciplinary care of patients and families across the lifespan. By focusing on health behavior change, treatment of mental and behavioral health problems, team dynamics and evidence-based practice, psychological services can make significant contributions to reducing cost and improving U.S. health outcomes (now 37th worldwide).