Community psychologists draw on a diverse set of research areas, theoretical stances and holistic understandings for researching and addressing social and community issues. In this paper students will explore different approaches and actions encompassed within community psychology, and in related fields such as indigenous, clinical and applied social psychologies. Community psychologists often learn from and work in partnership with people from other disciplines, fields and backgrounds. The central objective of community psychology is to work collaboratively towards improving people's everyday lives and the flourishing of communities. Core values are understanding social issues from an interconnected ecological perspective, respecting diversity, and advancing societal changes whilst supporting people with personal change. Such values reflect the view that the causes of and solutions to psychological issues are not solely located at the individual level, but require a broader approach.

The paper has a MOODLE site. Replies to MOODLE postings may not be immediate since the Teaching Assistant (and other staff) also have other responsibilities.

In a 15 point undergraduate paper there is a total of 150 hours for the whole semester. This means that the workload is at least 10 hrs per week, including class contact time. These figures are approximations as students vary in the amount of effort required and the grades they wish to achieve.

PSYCH302 is linked to the following papers: PSYCH202, PSYCH511, PSYCH513, PSYC583, PSYCH575 and HMDEV340. This paper is also closely linked to other papers in related disciplines including Human Development and Counselling, Maori Development, Sociology, Social Work, Social Policy, Human Geography, Population Studies, Pacific Studies, Anthropology, Gender and Sexuality Studies, History and Political Science.