Towards a methodology of psychological practice

Journal/Book: Theor Psychol. 1997; 7: 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Sage Publications Inc. 683-700.

Abstract: This article addresses the methodology of professional practice. As a counterpart to the 'predictive cycle' of generalizing or nomological science, a regulative cycle is proposed, which is directed towards the improvement of individual problem-situations with the help of low-level, problem-directed theories and is guided by norms and criteria of health, productivity, quality of life, and so on. Objections based on established empirical-analytical methodology are examined and it is shown that explicitly following the regulative model can contribute to a methodological 'disciplining' of practice without necessarily falling into a technocratic relationship with clients. Finally the role of 'paradigms of practice' is discussed, first at the level of professional practice, and then at the level of the paradigmatic problem-solving repertoires of our increasingly 'scientized' society.

Note: Article vanStrien PJ, Univ Groningen, Dept Psychol, Fdn & Hist Psychol, Grote Kruisstr 2-1, NL-9712 Ts Groningen, NETHERLANDS

Keyword(s): hermeneutics; nomological theory; professional practice; regulation; values

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Towards a methodology of psychological practice - The regulative cycle