From “behind the bridge” to the presidency of the American Psychological Association: Lessons learned on an unplanned journey.

Abstract

In this article, I provide an account of my journey from an impoverished neighborhood in the capital of Trinidad and Tobago to the presidency of the American Psychological Association (APA). Using the talent development megamodel as a framework, I recount events from my family, my K-12 schooling, my college years, and my time as an academic. I end with a few of the many lessons learned along the way. I hope that this story about my journey can inspire others who may think they are unlikely to aspire to the APA presidency to not allow their doubts to be a barrier to trying to fulfill their hopes and aspirations.

Personal and Professional Reflections on the History and Future of the JLSP

“…In this essay, and begging your indulgence, although personal academic "journeys" are not entirely rare (see Worrell, 2023), I have provided, albeit admittedly personalized (and perhaps biased) views of how the JLSP emerged and developed with respect to some key moments. In addition, I have provided some suggestions about how the social psychology of language, and this journal specifically, could benefit and grow in a number of ways, not least of which would be by renewed efforts in engaging societallymeaningful research questions.…”