Of particular interest is community
psychology in Cuba, which, as a communist country, has a
strong ideological commitment to economic equality and
collective wellbeing (see Bernal & Marín,
1985). Cuba’s social policies emphasize full employment, universal
health care and education, and housing, with the goal
of promoting quality of life and preventing social
problems (Nikelly, 1987). In spite of material
deprivation resulting from the embargo by the US and the loss of
support of the former Soviet Union, Cuba boasts high
rates of literacy and few problems related to
malnutrition, homelessness, anti-social behaviour or alcoholism.
What role has psychology played in Cuba? It is
interesting to note that some more traditional clinical
practices have been retained in Cuban psychology, such as
the emphasis on psychological testing (Bernal, 1985).
At the same time, however, Cuban psychology is guided
by a ‘pragmatic, action-oriented model focused on
resolving community needs in areas such as
health education’ (p. 234). When psychologists graduate work immediately and are incorporated sectors of society: industry,
education, services, and corrections among others At present the work of psychologists
is focused helping citizens face the difficult economic Research is directed at the effects
of the on the Cuban family, formation and
strengthening values, and the impact of tourism on Calviño, 1996). Psychologists
are aware of the ‘special period’ on their own professional behaviour, as they are
not adverse effects of the social and
economic (Sánchez Valdés,
Prilleltensky,Walsh Bowers 2002). Community Psychology in Cuba Box 1.2
