Growth, like when it happens in our own children, is nearly impossible to notice in real time. Only when we look back do the real differences become clear. The same can be said for APA and psychology.
As we close out 2026 and I reflect on where we are as a field and an organization, three shifts stand out.
- Tackling critical societal issues. A decade ago, we asked why psychology was often missing from national conversations about issues our science could help address. In recent years, we celebrated simply being invited into those discussions. Today, leaders across sectors increasingly recognize psychological science as fundamental to addressing challenges involving human behavior, such as climate change, AI, and misinformation. Translating that expertise into practical value—what 1969 APA President George Miller, PhD, called "giving psychology away"—is becoming central to how we operate.
- Shaping the future of psychology. For years, our advocacy focused primarily on protecting reimbursement, research funding, and training. That work remains essential, but advancing the discipline also requires a clear vision of where psychology should be and deliberate action to get there. We are increasingly setting that agenda, creating opportunities for psychologists to apply the full scope of their expertise. Advancing reimbursement for addressing social determinants of health is one example. Bringing psychological science into the responsible development and deployment of AI is another.
- Evolving our tactics. We are increasingly measuring our work by the difference it makes in the world. For instance, instead of a white paper that receives hundreds of views, our Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence translated research into practical guidance for families, educators, and technology companies, garnering national attention and driving policy action. Sustaining impact also means adapting our approach. Following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Chiles v. Salazar, we doubled down on our state-level work to protect people from conversion therapy. Such efforts can be less visible and more complicated, but meaningful change requires persistence that goes beyond a single statement.
This momentum reflects years of intentional effort, grounded in our members’ expertise and commitment to APA’s mission—and it creates a responsibility to build on what we have achieved. As we enter 2027, we must turn psychology’s growing influence into lasting benefits for the people and communities we serve. That is the purpose of our progress and the work ahead.
