Human science and indigenous psychology: a reflection on diagnosis and psychological assessment

Abstract

The human science movement in psychology is founded on a multi-angle re-examination of mainstream psychology as a natural science, whereas indigenous perspectives highlight the mismatch between indigenous psychological phenomenon and Western-based research, concepts and theories. Despite a shared commitment to de-centering Western psychology as a universal framework of methods and worldviews, the convergence between human science and indigenous psychology has rarely been discussed. This article seeks to explore some of the ways in which the tradition of human science can enrich indigenous theorizing in psychology. Emphasis on the issue of diagnosis and psychological assessment highlights the tension between Western psychological inventions and indigenous practice. Alternatively, some human science approaches are introduced as viable options for non-Western practitioners who might struggle to bridge the gap between their professional training and indigenous aspirations.