Psychology of Women and GenderThe authors acknowledge the contributions of Mary Crawford, Rachel T. Hare‐Mustin, and Ellen B. Kimmel, who were co‐authors of the chapter that appeared in the first edition of the volume.

Abstract

This historical overview of the field of psychology of women and gender emphasizes developments since the beginning of the second wave of feminism (c. 1970). Feminists in psychology have addressed deficiencies and inaccuracies in psychology's knowledge base, challenged biases in clinical practice and research methods, and policies of professional organizations that perpetuate social inequality. Research endeavors in the field include studies of gender difference and similarity, gendered power relations, the discursive construction of gender and sexuality, concealed aspects of women's experience, and the lives of women and girls marginalized by ethnicity, sexuality, or social class. Feminist researchers have also developed innovative modes of inquiry and interrogated conventional epistemological frameworks of psychology. Feminist clinicians and counselors have pioneered new approaches to diagnosis, assessment, prevention, treatment, and clinical supervision, as well as new frameworks for therapeutic ethics. Feminist-inspired interventions for psychological problems include therapies for rape, problems with eating and body image, rape, and conflicts in couples and families, including intimate violence and the sexual abuse of children. The final portion of the chapter describes the origins and goals of a variety of organizations through which feminist psychologists pursue their professional goals and work for social justice. Keywords: feminism; feminist psychology; feminist therapy; gender; psychology of women; sex differences; social change