As a psychologist, Mary Whiton Calkins was a pioneering figure in the field of psychology, particularly in the area of self-psychology. She was known for her innovative research and theories, which contributed significantly to the understanding of the self and its role in human behavior. Calkins was not only a psychologist but also a philosopher, which allowed her to approach psychological concepts from a broader and more integrated perspective.

Calkins was born in 1863 and lived during a time when women were not commonly recognized for their intellectual contributions. Despite these challenges, she pursued her education and became a highly respected member of the academic community. Her work in psychology was groundbreaking, and she was the first woman to be elected president of the American Psychological Association (APA), a testament to her impact and influence in the field.

One of Calkins's most notable contributions to psychology was her work on the concept of the self. She believed that the self was a complex and multifaceted entity, which included aspects such as personal identity, self-awareness, and self-concept. Calkins argued that the self was not static but rather a dynamic and evolving aspect of an individual's personality. Her research on the self was particularly influential in the development of self-psychology, a branch of psychology that focuses on the study of the self and its role in mental health and well-being.

In addition to her work on the self, Calkins also made significant contributions to the study of memory. She conducted extensive research on memory processes, including the ways in which memories are formed, stored, and retrieved. Her work in this area helped to advance the understanding of how memory works and how it can be influenced by various factors, such as attention and emotion.

Calkins was also a strong advocate for women in academia. As the first woman to become president of the APA, she paved the way for other women to pursue careers in psychology and related fields. Her leadership and achievements served as an inspiration to many, and her legacy continues to influence the field of psychology today.

In summary, Mary Whiton Calkins was a highly influential psychologist who made significant contributions to the fields of self-psychology and memory research. Her work has had a lasting impact on the understanding of the self and its role in human behavior, and her advocacy for women in academia has helped to create a more inclusive and diverse field of psychology.

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Mary Whiton Calkins (1863-1930) Mary Whiton Calkins was a late 19th and early 20th century psychologist and philosopher who introduced the field of self psychology. She was the first woman to become president of the American Psychological Association.Jul 7, 2015read more >>