Social class is more than just how much money you have. It's also the clothes you wear, the music you like, the school you go to -- and has a strong influence on how you interact with others (Keltner, Kraus, & Piff, 2011). It is a more profound part of who we are than we have typically acknowledged. Lott and Bullock (2007) have argued that psychology as a discipline has neglected social class, and this has impaired our knowledge base and our clinical practice. As an association we might also ask how our lack of understanding of social class impacts our interactions, processes and policies. Social class refers to hierarchical distinctions between individuals or groups, characterized by differential access to necessary resources. As a critical element impacting the individuals’ lives, it merits increased attention from mental health professionals. In an effort to bring social class and related topics to the fore in AWP, an interest group on social class was convened during the 2006 and 2007 annual conferences, participants of which decided to form the Social Class Caucus. Some recent research and publications suggest that both researchers and clinicians are developing a better understanding of the impact of social class on human interactions. The Social Class Caucus works for social class consciousness among AWP members and within psychology and mental health practice. 

Mary Burke
 

The Student Caucus was formed to represent the position and needs of student members of the Association of Women in Psychology. In addition to other aspects of their identities, students face unique challenges in professional domains. The power dynamics experienced by students in conference and other professional spaces are often overlooked. This caucus gives students a space to engage with other peers about their struggles and achievements within the discipline of psychology. Participants are also able to build a network of peers with whom to collaborate and communicate with both within and outside conference spaces.

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Elizabeth Bennett

The Women of Color Caucus provides a safe space for women of color within AWP to come together to discuss topics relevant to their experiences. We connect to support each other as we navigate various aspects of our identities, careers and lives as feminist educators, researchers and practitioners. We hope to provide an opportunity for WOC to find a home within AWP, whether this is your first or your 39th conference!" The Caucus is open to all Women of Color.

Cathy (Cat) Thompson

Implementation Collective Women of Color Coordinator
Riddhi Sandil
 

The Caucus for Bisexuality and Sexual Diversity (CBSD) is committed to promoting dialogue within AWP about the range of expressions of sexual orientation, gender identity and sexual diversity. In particular, the CBSD seeks to raise awareness of aspects of identity that do not fit into traditional dichotomous conceptualizations. The CBSD supports conference programming on sexual diversity, particularly as it intersects with issues of race, class, and ability status as well as spirituality. The caucus also sponsors the annual Coming Out Ceremony, where participants are invited to come out about any aspect of their identity for which they would like community witness and support.

Nicole Johnson

Amorie Robinson 

With an emphasis on the resiliencies of Black lesbian youth, this presentation will provide a clinical case study of a 16-year-old adolescent experiencing intimate partner dating violence (IPV) and the interventions and services used to help her obtain a sense of security.

(Paper session)

The goals of the Researchers' Caucus are (1) to encourage current AWP members to present their quantitative and qualitative research at AWP conferences; (2) to provide a forum for researchers to network and collaborate on future projects; and (3) to encourage new researchers in the field to join AWP.

Crystal L. Hendrick

Clare Mehta