Liberation psychology and trauma: A systematic review across global contexts

This systematic review examines the development and global impact of Liberation Psychology, a critical approach within social psychology focused on the psychological consequences of oppression and trauma. Originating in mid-20th-century Latin America through the work of Ignacio Martín-Baró, Liberation Psychology critiques mainstream psychological paradigms and seeks to empower marginalized communities through participatory, contextually grounded interventions. Following the PRISMA framework, this review synthesizes 62 studies that explore the application of Liberation Psychology across diverse socio-political contexts. The findings highlight the approach’s relevance in addressing psychosocial trauma, particularly in regions affected by state violence, colonialism, systemic discrimination, and forced displacement. Key themes include the intersections of oppression, the importance of community-based healing, and the need to decolonize psychological practices. While Liberation Psychology remains a minority approach, its principles have gained increasing recognition in global psychological research, particularly in the Global South. This study underscores the need for a shift from individualistic, medicalized models of trauma towards holistic frameworks that integrate social justice, empowerment, and collective healing. The findings suggest that Liberation Psychology provides a critical lens for addressing contemporary challenges in psychological practice and research worldwide.