Introduction to Sikolohiyang Pilipino

Introduction to Sikolohiyang Pilipino

• Sikolohiyang Pilipino represents psychology rooted in Filipino experiences, thoughts, and cultural orientations.
• Emphasis on "indigenization from within," developing theories from indigenous cultural experiences.
• Established the Philippine Psychology Research House (PPRH) to house extensive resources on Filipino psychology.

The Beginnings of Sikolohiyang Pilipino

• Emerged in the 1960s, driven by Filipino intellectuals' recognition of the inadequacies of Western psychology.
• Notable contributions by Dr. Agustin Alonzo starting in 1925, who mentored several influential Filipino psychologists.

Cultural Relevance and Identity

• Sikolohiyang Pilipino seeks to make psychological theories relevant to the Filipino context.
• It fosters a sense of national identity by validating Filipino cultural practices and values.
• Academic-scientific perspectives often viewed as tools of colonization, emphasizing the need for a distinctly Filipino approach.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Katutubong Sikolohiya: Indigenous knowledge base reflecting true Filipino psychology.
• The Psychology of Filipinos: A sophisticated approach to understanding Filipino traits.
• Practice of Filipino Psychology: Involves socialization techniques and clinical approaches addressing local issues.

Impact of Western Psychology

• By the early 20th century, American psychology's influence expanded in Filipino universities.
• Use of English in psychology education facilitated the adoption of foreign values, leading to a devaluation of indigenous knowledge.
• Western textbooks became standard, reshaping Filipino psychologists' perspectives toward American ideals.

Key Filipino Values in Psychology

• Pakikisama: Emphasizes group harmony and a preference for togetherness over individualism.
• Go Between: Importance of mediators in resolving conflicts or communication barriers.
• Ningas Kugon: Describes initial enthusiasm that fades quickly, challenging continuity in initiatives.
• Bahala Na: Expresses a spiritual surrender with a “come what may” attitude, rooted in cultural beliefs of fate.

Recognition and Contributions

• Enriquez, a key figure in developing Sikolohiyang Pilipino, received multiple awards for his contributions to psychology.
• Advocated for a Filipino psychology that resists Western hegemony, encouraging literature reflective of Filipino experiences.

Leadership and Legacy

• After Enriquez's passing, leadership was handed to followers like Rogelia Pe-Pua, Grace Dalisay, and Elizabeth Marcelino.
• Emphasized the need for literature that resonates with the Filipino psyche as part of the national liberation movement.

Approaches to Indigenization

• Indigenization from Without: Adapting Western theories to the Filipino context while considering local cultural nuances.
• Indigenization from Within: Harnessing native culture as a foundation for developing psychology that reflects Filipino realities.