Hirst

The early Greek philosophers affected psychology because they challenged the traditional church and began to explore our world with rationality instead of blind faith. They questioned the authority and traditions of their time. They looked for answers that could be observed in the natural world. For example, Hunt (1993) writes, Alcmaeon suggested that the brain, rather than organs such as the heart, is where thinking and processing occur. Hunt also writes that Hippocrates believed that answers regarding mental dysfunction would be found in the natural world instead of within gods, demons and evil spirits. These philosophers have initiated changes and have encouraged the freedom for future scientists to explore our world. Thus, this has enhanced our knowledge base.

We have knowledge based on normal brain functioning and also have a better understanding of mental illness. We know now that neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine have an affect on mood. Knowledge such as this was initiated because of our forefathers in philosophy and psychology. We must remember and be grateful for people like Hippocrates. He helped initiate that change or shift in thought from mysticism to rationalism. Before, people believed mental illness was possession by evil spirits. In fact, some people today still do believe in that way.

I believe that the Greek philosophers also have influenced psychology in positive ways that we view society. They have given us the courage to challenge tradition and stereotypes. For example, with the introduction of rationalism and science, I believe society has made some significant advances. For example, racism, sexism and heterosexism have been exposed. Homosexual men and women have more rights and continue to attain more rights with time. Women have more freedoms as well as other minority groups. However, psychology also is now beginning to explore the process of internalized homophobia, sexism and racism. So we still have much to learn to make society even better.

They have influenced my chosen specialty because I want to use my knowledge in psychology to challenge cultural traditions and challenge stereotypes that exist in our world that affect minority groups. I have mainly chosen to work with the gay community. I have a masters degree in counseling and I work with individuals with substance abuse and HIV/AIDS. A challenge working with this population is dealing with the shame that my clients carry. My clients talk about feeling dirty less. I hear stories of how their family members tell them to wash their hands or wont take a sip from their drinking glass because of fear of catching HIV. We have so much information on the spread of HIV yet people still cling to old, false beliefs preconceptions. This is why I am in the field of psychology. I love working with minority populations and helping others achieve freedom and personal success in a society that can and continues to be oppressive.

References
Hunt, M. (1993). The Story of Psychology. New York: Random House, Inc.

Barry Aneda is a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Associate Counselor working with our GLBTQ community in the field of Addictions and HIV/AIDS.

For more information you can reach him at http://www.barryaneda.com Then, in order to visit his virtual office, simply click the link titled Visit My Virtual office.

Ah, what to buy for beloved mom for Christmas. Heres a list of unique gifts for mom that are sure to make her smile.

Unique Gifts for Mom

Okay, she is probably tired of getting bubble bath and so on. This year, you need to get her a unique gift. And here we go

1. Terry Velour Spa Wrap In the bathroom theme, but so much more, the Terry Velour Spa Wrap is a great unique gift. The wrap is super soft, warm and is put on when getting out of the shower or bath. It has a velcro strap to ensure a snug fit and is a definite keeper with moms. You can expect to pay $40 for this unique gift.

2. Shiitake Mushroom Log If mom likes to cook, she is going to love this very unique gift. The Shiitake Mushroom Log is exactly what it says, a wooden log on which she can grow gourmet Shiitake mushrooms for years. The log comes with instructions and starts producing mushrooms within 10 to 20 days. After the first crop, the log will continue to produce mushrooms every 8 weeks or so for years. A very unique gift that shows you put some effort into finding her a gift. The Shiitake Mushroom Log will set you back roughly $40

3. Picture Time If you really want to make an impression, gather up your siblings and get a professional portrait done of all of you together. Next, get a custom made calligraphy card thanking Mom for putting up with all of your antics and always being there. A unique gift that is guaranteed to bring tears of happiness to her eyes. Prices will range depending on your location, so make sure to shop different photography studios. Also, make sure you see examples of their work so you can determine if you like the style.

4. Salsa Dancing Lessons On occasion, moms need a little spice in their life. Nothing is spicier than salsa dancing lessons. Practically every metropolitan area has salsa dancing studios where mom and dad can learn the Latin dance style. Price range from location to location, but expect to spend $50 to $200 for two to four lessons. A very unique gift for mom.

5. Nomad Writing Journals If mom likes to travel, the outdoors or just document family activities, these writing journals will be a hit. The journals come pre-organized for a variety of subjects such as travel, camping, hiking and bird watching. Each journal contains blank spaces for notes as well as cue areas to remind her to write down information such as places stayed, people met and their contact information and so on. The journals cost as low as $9 without waterproof case and $25 with case.

If youre looking for unique gifts for mom, the above list should do the trick.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals for travel and outdoor activities. Writing journals make great Christmas gifts for her.