Impact in Psychology
Last month as the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association (APA), held in Seattle, I was presented with the American Psychological Foundation (APF) 2024 Gold Medal Award for Impact in Psychology.
The citation for the award includes mention of the Center for Institutional Courage:
Jennifer Joy Freyd is recognized for her trailblazing research and advocacy, which has reshaped the understanding of trauma, betrayal, and responses to sexual violence. Her theory of betrayal trauma challenged prevailing assumptions, particularly regarding survivors of child sexual abuse. Dr. Freyd’s resilience and commitment to justice have inspired countless individuals worldwide and influenced therapeutic approaches, policy reforms, and societal attitudes toward trauma and gender-based violence. Dr. Freyd has also served as a prominent figure in significant social movements that empower victims, such as #MeToo. Through initiatives like the Center for Institutional Courage, she continues to advocate for survivors’ rights and promote ethical research practices, aiming for a more equitable society where survivors find validation and healing.
The Gold Medal Award has led to several written publications, two of which are linked below, and also an opportunity for me to give remarks (that were recorded) at the August 10 award event in Seattle, also linked below:
A probing article written by the three individuals who nominated me for the award. JenniferJ. Freyd Wins American Psychological Foundation 2024 Gold Medal Award for Impact in Psychology by Michael Salter, Jennifer M. Gomez, and Judith L. Herman, ISSTD News, 17 April 2024.
A biography published in APA’s flagship archival journal: APF Gold Medal Award for Impact in Psychology: Jennifer Joy Freyd (2024). American Psychologist, 79(5), 700–702. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001382.
Link to a 5-minute recording of my remarks on August 10 upon receiving the award
Receiving this award is especially meaningful for me because it represents acknowledgement from mainstream psychology regarding the importance of our work. This acknowledgement feels new and also gives me hope for the future. As I commented for the press release from the APF: “I am grateful for this award. I am also hopeful that this acknowledgement will help in our efforts to investigate and prevent betrayal trauma and institutional betrayal while discovering how to nurture institutional courage.”
Jennifer Joy Freyd, PhD
Founder and President
Center for Institutional Courage