Psychology is a discipline applications of which are extending to almost every sphere of the human life; from Business and Economics to Medicine and Law. When combined to other disciplines psychology becomes a powerful tool, but what about its role as an applied science in itself? Harvey believes that Psychology is fundamentally related to communities and its applications can affect social systems in numerous ways. In his speech, he goes in great lengths to describe the role of community psychology in treating addiction. He presents a revolutionary method in this sphere and talks about its application and results as seen through the eyes of a revolutionary psychologist.

Ronald Harvey is a two-time Fulbright Scholar and has his doctorate in community psychology from DePaul University in Chicago, USA. The primary focus of his community psychology research is how formal and informal social systems such as governments and local communities impact the actions and well-being of individuals with drug and alcohol problems when such people leave treatment and re-integrate back into society.He is currently doing international development research to create treatment systems for former addicts in Bulgaria, and to perform cross-cultural research on their feasibility and effectiveness. He currently teaches psychology at American University in Bulgaria and runs a number of improv comedy workshops on in Sofia and at various English-language high schools throughout Bulgaria.


This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx