Unification Through Division: Histories of the Divisions of the American Psychological Association (HISTORIES OF THE DIVISIONS OF THE APA)

In 1946, the American Psychological Association responded to the specialization of psychology by creating "divisions" of specialties within the field. "Unification Through Division" is an historical series that explores each division's struggles and successes. This volume presents the histories of Divisions 10, 20, 24, 36, 41, 44 and 47. These histories go beyond mere chronological presentations of fact to give a behind-the-scenes look into the defining events of a division's history and the dedicated individuals who shaped them. For example, this volume describes the beginnings of Division 20, Adult Development and Aging, as it forged new territory in embracing the entire lifespan as fertile ground for human development and study. The history of Division 41, the American Psychology-Law Society, traces its evolution from a small component in the field of psychology to a major player and arbiter of social and public policy. All histories cover the overall philosophy and approach of the division, the story behind its founding, events at the annual convention, and how the division has responded to debate within the field. From these engaging accounts emerge a picture of how the divisions have shaped, and have been shaped by, the larger events and controversies within psychology.