Internet psychology: Defining the parameters of a new field.

摘要

The Internet is rapidly emerging as an integral part of society and it is revolutionizing many aspects of daily life, including the conduct of professional psychology. For psychologists, the Internet will impact such diverse areas as professional development, the delivery of psychotherapeutic interventions, the conduct of psychological research, and the role of psychologists within the emerging quasi-spatial domain of cyberspace. As the 21st century unfolds, it will become increasingly important for psychologists to understand the multivaried impact of the Internet on the practice of professional psychology. This current work offers an overview of the Internet's impact on the field of professional psychology, including a discussion of the issues associated with professional development using the Internet, the ethical and pragmatic issues of delivering online psychotherapeutic interventions, the ethical and pragmatic issues associated with online research methodologies, and emerging issues in online community psychology. Based on this discussion, recommendations are offered for professional psychology to adopt a proactive approach to engaging this new medium of communication.