Dr. Caroline Stanley, assistant professor of psychology, has been named president of the Constructivist Psychology Network, an international, professional organization of psychologists. Constructivist psychology focuses on meaning-making and the process of personal change.
We asked the second-year faculty member about her role as president, her goals for the organization and what this means to BSU and its students.
Q: What are your goals in leading the CPN?
A: As president, I hope to better disseminate constructivist ideas and to introduce constructivism to a wider audience. I especially hope to increase student awareness of constructivist psychology. I’m also interested in increasing CPN’s use of social media to assist with this endeavor.
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Q: How will your involvement with the organization impact your work at BSU?
A: An understanding of the theoretical and practical implications of constructivist psychology will be of value to BSU students and faculty. Although constructivism isn’t the most well-known area of psychology, those who learn about it tend to find it very meaningful. (Also) one of my goals as president is to create new opportunities for student involvement in CPN. Our organization offers a distinct sense of community and support, particularly with regard to mentoring students. BSU students should have prime access to this type of support. They should be able to view CPN as a place for personal and professional growth. They should have access to leaders of the field and to the professional opportunities that these leaders offer.
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Q: How else might your leadership role benefit the university?
A: The CPN presidency is a position that offers unique opportunities for recognition, publicity, and professional networking. It will pave the way for greater recognition of the BSU psychology department and of the unique programs that we offer for both graduates and undergraduates. It will also enhance the professional and career opportunities that I could provide for the faculty and students of psychology.
Learn more about the Constructivist Psychology Network here. (Interview by John Winters, G ’11, University News)
