An insider's look at the development and current state of community psychology in Latin America

This article presents the rich history of community psychology in Latin America, describing how the field was systematically built during the second half of the 20th century. Discussed are social and political influences such as the critique of individualistic emphasis dominant at that moment, Paulo Freire's popular education, critical sociology (Fals Borda), and the need to intervene to transform unequal societies. Also described are early characteristics of Latin American community psychology, its rapid development during the 1980s, marked by the emphasis on social transformation, participation, power and empowerment in communities, and a critical orientation. The construction of a paradigm during the 1990s, as well as two models used in community psychology projects coexisting in Latin America societies, are presented. Current trends in community psychology in Latin America are summarized. (C) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.