Politics and Mental Health: The Position of Clinical Psychology in South Africa

Abstract

Clinical psychology in South Africa, with few exceptions, has been unresponsive to its socio-political context. Attempts by certain authors to make their work relevant to the South African context are examined. Their adherence to a non-critical, conservative ideology is suggested as a reason for the lack of a more powerful critical focus. It is argued that Apartheid (or the policy of racial segregation) adversely affects the mental well-being of most South Africans through its generation of stress situations unique to this society. It is further argued that clinical psychology cannot claim scientific or moral respectability as long as it continues to take an uncritical position. South African clinical psychologists can begin to remedy this situation through the development of appropriate research and training, as well as public pronouncement through their professional associations.