Zeus A. Salazar and Filipino Psychology

Filipino Psychological Contributions and Concepts

• Zeus A. Salazar was a significant figure in Filipino psychology, founding the Pambansang Samahan ng Sikolohiyang Pilipino.
• Salazar introduced concepts such as "hiya," which he described as having both internal and external aspects, and proposed "sense of propriety" as its closest English equivalent.
• Carmen Santiago, a psychology postgraduate, studied "pagkalalaki" and introduced the pakapa-kapa ("groping") approach in her writings.
• Bostrom (1968) compared the Filipino value Bahala na to American fatalism, marking a pivotal analysis in psychology.
• Thomas Andres defined "bahala na" as a Filipino attitude of accepting problems while leaving the outcome to God, linking it to fatalistic resignation.
• Lagmay challenged the notion of "bahala na" as fatalism, arguing it embodies determination and risk-taking.

Core Filipino Values

• Filipino Values reflect cultural beliefs cultivated through historical experiences, guiding social interactions and understanding of issues.
• "Bahala na" represents a belief in letting circumstances unfold, often viewed as fatalistic but interpreted as trusting divine providence by some.
• Utang na Loob emphasizes gratitude and reciprocity in relationships, contrasting with superficial gratitude practices.

Social Dynamics: Pakikisama and Pakikipagkapwa

• Pakikisama promotes smooth interpersonal relations and conformity, showcasing Filipinos' preference for maintaining group harmony.
• In a professional context, pakikisama manifests in collaborative work environments that prioritize collective responsibility.
• Pakikipagkapwa, described by Enriquez, stresses the importance of recognizing shared humanity, fostering deeper connections and responsibilities within communities.

Cultural Divides and Identity

• A cultural divide exists between mass-oriented Filipinos and the elite, differing in lifestyles, language, and social practices.
• Kapwa serves as a foundation for social connections, emphasizing our shared humanity and mutual recognition beyond social class distinctions.

Filipino Personhood Theory

• Virgilio Enriquez introduced a personality theory based on Filipino values and social identity, distinguishing between "personhood" and "personality."
• Pagkatao (personhood) highlights our communal and collective identity, which is contextually richer than personality, an individualistic concept.

Kapwa Psychology: Core Values

• Kapwa Psychology, or Sikolohiyang Pilipino, integrates indigenous beliefs with modern psychological theories, emphasizing the need for social action.
• Pakikipagkapwa promotes a "shared self," facilitating empathy and appropriate social responses.
• Bahala na is reinterpreted as a statement of trust and determination, driving resourcefulness in challenging situations, rather than simple fatalism.

Resilience and Adaptation

• Lagmay recognized "Bahala na" as a motivational force encouraging risk-taking and adaptability in the turbulent Filipino environment.
• This mindset fosters resilience and creativity, empowering individuals to navigate through challenges and unpredictability effectively.

This quiz explores the contributions of Zeus A. Salazar, a pivotal figure in Filipino psychology and the founder of Pambansang Samahan ng Sikolohiyang Pilipino. It delves into his theories on affixation and the concept of 'hiya' or sense of propriety. Test your knowledge on his life, works, and significant impact on the field.