10 Influential Women Psychologists In History And Today

When we think about psychology we usually have in mind male figures such as Sigmund Freud, BF Skinner, John B. Watson, as well as other popular references such as Walter Riso or Jordan B. Peterson. Even so, there are many important contributions made by psychologists that perhaps we do not have so much in mind when we think about this science. However, women have had a very relevant role in psychology both historically and currently.

Where are women in the history of psychology?

It is very likely that, when studying the history of psychology, there is the question of whether all the pioneers in this field were men. Although there is a predominance of male thinkers in the important lists of pioneers of psychology, the reality is that since the beginning of the formation of this area of ​​human knowledge, women have been very present

The main reason why women do not appear in these publications is precisely that those who stood out in the field of psychology faced discriminations, obstacles and social difficulties that did not allow them to stand out scientifically. Some of the main barriers were:

• Limitations to study at universities
• Denial of titles or academic recognitions
• Greater difficulties in obtaining academic positions that would allow them to research and publish

We must keep in mind that despite the difficulties suffered by female psychologists At the beginning of the 20th century, many of them managed to face all these limitations and gain recognition in the world of psychology.

Important women psychologists (currently and in history)

There are many women, both in history and today, who deserve recognition in the field of psychology. Some of those that we highlight, for their relevant contributions in this science, are the following:

1. Anna Freud (1895-1982, Austria)

You have probably heard the name Sigmund Freud because he is considered the father of psychology. However, the daughter of this famous psychoanalyst, Anna Freud, was also a renowned psychologist and influenced many of the roots of current theories of modern psychology. This scientist not only expanded on many of his father’s ideas, but also made many interesting contributions to the field of child psychotherapy. Her theories influenced other psychologists such as Erik Erikson.

2. Maria Whiton Calkins (1863-1930, United States)

She was an American philosopher, psychologist and professor. This psychologist, even though she studied at Harvard, was never given approval for her studies at a formal level. In fact, she shared classes with some of the most influential thinkers of the time, such as the well-known William James. Her unstoppable academic curiosity led her to complete all the requirements for a doctorate, although Harvard refused to grant her the degree simply because she was a woman. Despite all these adversities, Calkins managed to be the first woman president of the American Psychological Association In addition, he also managed to write more than one hundred scientific articles on many topics in psychology, as well as being very influential in the area of ​​self-knowledge.

3. Maria Ainsworth (1913-1999, United States)

It was a prominent developmental psychologist Her work exposed the importance of healthy bonds during childhood and pioneered the use of a technique known as ‘Strange Situation’ (where children’s reactions to the absence of the mother and the presence of a stranger are studied). ). Ainsworth’s innovations had a major influence on the understanding and study of attachment styles and how they contribute to the development of our personality and relationships throughout life.

4. Leta Stetter Hollingworth (1886 -1936, United States)

We highlight Hollingworth because one of his most important contributions was the research on the psychology of women In fact, the prevailing opinion at that time was that women were intellectually inferior to men and it was even believed that during menstruation they were semi-invalids. Hollingworth challenged these assumptions and demonstrated that women were just as intelligent and capable as men, regardless of the effects of menstruation. In addition, he contributed to the research on intelligence carried out by Edward Thorndike.

5. Melanie Klein (1882 – 1960, Austria)

One of the most used techniques to help children express their feelings and experiences naturally it is play therapy. Klein played a key role in the development of this technique because his research showed that children often use play as one of their primary means of communication. She was therefore a pioneer in investigating children’s feelings, anxieties and unconscious experiences through play.

6. Eleanor Maccoby (1917 – 2018, United States)

His work was crucial for the advancement of developmental psychology , since it involved a discovery about the relevant role that sexual differences have in socialization and roles. On the other hand, she was the first woman to chair the psychology department at Stanford University as well as to give a lecture at the same university wearing a pant suit. During her professional and academic career she received many awards due to all her contributions and innovations in the field of psychology.

7. Barbara Fredickson (United States)

Currently, there are also great references of contemporary psychology One of the examples of them is Barbara Fredickson, a psychology professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel recognized for her research around emotions and positive psychology.

8. Patricia Ramírez (Spain)

Former competitive gymnast and psychologist, she has contributed to the scientific dissemination of this branch of knowledge. She specialized in sports psychology and has helped national and international athletes achieve their goals and achieve professional and personal goals. Currently, she is recognized nationally and internationally due to the role she has had as psychology popularizer on various television, radio and social media programs.

9. Jenny Moix (Spain)

Doctor in psychology and current professor at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. In addition to being a professor, she also disseminates her knowledge about the branch of psychology through books and conferences. She stands out above all for her contributions in the field of attention and mindfulness

10. Arantxa Coca (Spain)

The doctor in psychology Arantxa Coca is known for her participation in current television programs. Even so, she has contributed academically to many aspects of the psychology such as childhood anxiety, family therapy and couple relationships

These are some of the female figures who have stood out in their contribution to the field of psychology Even so, there are many other women who have contributed knowledge and advances in this science, making a very extensive list of names and contributions.