Teaching of psychology in Brazil

Abstract

Psychology programs were first recognized in Brazilian universities during the mid‐20th century. Prior to that, psychology had been taught in conjunction with other programs such as medicine, law, and education. The growth of psychology programs has been rapid in the last 25 years. From the time the Brazilian government first established a 5‐year degree program in 1962, the number of psychology programs regulated by the Ministry of Education has increased to about 150. Graduate programs, established in 1965 and 1968, are also rapidly expanding. Psychology teaching draws on both European and US traditions in content and teaching methodology. A sociocultural psychological orientation is emphasized. Psychologists are prepared in 5‐year undergraduate programs including 2 years of internship and extensive coursework in all areas of the discipline, including neurophysiology, psychobiology, social psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, health psychology, and organizational psychology. Programs must follow national curriculum guidelines. There is no consensus as to which textbooks to use in particular courses and these decisions are generally left to the discretion of the professors. The preference is for use of customized collections of readings rather than books. Textbooks are thought to provide one‐sided perspectives and to discourage library research. The increasing availability of on‐line journals and e‐books has revolutionized information access in Brazil, as in the rest of the world, and these are often used. The goals of undergraduate psychology programs are to prepare capable psychologists to work in a variety of capacities to benefit Brazilian society as a whole. The majority of psychologists practice in urban areas. Community organizations and social movements operating in rural areas may also have psychologists on staff. The optimism, respect for diversity, and dedication to democratic principles that are leading Brazil quickly into strong economic and social prominence in the 21st century are reflected in the teaching of psychology.