Over the past year, we have lost many of our psychologist colleagues, including many of the field’s leading lights. Although they are no longer with us, what we learned from them will keep the profession moving forward. They taught us about early cognitive and emotional development; social learning theory and the construct of self-efficacy; contingency management; and the crucial role of health psychologists in both primary and tertiary health care. Some of these psychologists also made significant contributions to the interface between political ideology and cognitive functioning; group conflict and institutional discrimination; the complexities of human relationships; well-being and happiness; the mental benefits of physical activity and the application of sport psychology techniques to athletes and performers; and an issue of incredible importance to me—the need to work toward eliminating health disparities.
They were researchers, teachers, mentors, and advocates for students. One thing they all had in common was their ability to apply psychological science to everyday lives.
Now it is up to us to continue their work by:
- Understanding and recognizing the power of collective action. Our work can have great positive impact on the world. We can accomplish more as a profession if we coordinate our efforts instead of working in silos. It will be important to learn from and work with our international colleagues as well.
- Lifting and encouraging each other. Even while we focus on our careers and the issues we care about, we must find time to help nurture those in the psychological pipeline, especially our students and early career colleagues.
- Expanding our reach and communicating our science. Our field is making a difference in society, whether it is addressing climate change or helping athletes manage the challenge of being on the world stage. We know that psychological science informs the work that we do, and we must do a better job in communicating our science. Let’s explain what we are doing in a manner that the world can understand.
- Recognizing the value of leadership and advocacy. Some of the people we lost were leaders in the field. To have the greatest impact, we must lead as effectively as they did, especially during these challenging times. That will allow us to move forward, to communicate our work, and to continue to advocate for positive changes.